Martinborough is a small South Wairarapa town with cafés and accommodation around its square and vineyards a short way out of town. South of Lake Wairarapa, the roads lead to the exposed coast around Ngāwī and Cape Palliser. A weekend gives you time for a vineyard lunch and a separate coast day.
A day around Martinborough
Start at the square and decide how far you want to go. Some vineyard visits are easy to group, but check each one’s opening days and book a lunch table if it’s the centre of your day. Hire a bike if the weather suits and everyone is comfortable riding on shared roads. Keep the tasting plan light and arrange transport that fits your group. Green Jersey bike hire
With children or mixed interests, plan the day around one meal and a stop in Greytown or Featherston. Featherston also makes a useful first stop after the Remutaka Hill. Check the return timetable if you came over by train and arrange the connection to Martinborough before setting out.
Use the square as your starting point and keep the route simple. The vineyards are spread across country roads, so check which stops are close enough for your group and arrange a sober driver or suitable transport before setting out.
Give the south coast a separate day
From the inland towns the road runs towards the coast, where the settlements get smaller and Cook Strait feels a good deal closer. Ngāwī and Cape Palliser make a worthwhile outing in settled conditions. Allow time for the return drive and check road conditions before leaving. Give seals room and follow DOC’s viewing guidance. At the lighthouse, decide on the steps when you see them and keep children close. Wairarapa visitor information · DOC seal viewing guidance
Check the live access notice before adding Pūtangirua Pinnacles to the day. Build the itinerary so it still works if vehicle access is affected. DOC Pūtangirua Pinnacles information
Where to stay
Martinborough Holiday Park is a practical budget base for camping or a cabin. The Martinborough Hotel suits a weekend on foot around the square. Compare Parehua Resort if you’re staying longer or want a different room layout. One night works for town and a vineyard lunch. Two nights give you a proper coast day.
See the Wellington region guide for city bases and the wider route.
Rows of vines in Martinborough. jonathanischoice / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0.