Wellington
- Martinborough
79 km (49 miles)
Approximately 1 hour
Road Conditions: Motorway/State Highway
Wellington is compact, cultured and full of character. Nestled between the harbour and the hills, the downtown area is ideal for explorations on foot. Enjoy cafes, restaurants, museums and all kinds of shops. Dance, theatre and musical performances are a Wellington specialty. As New Zealand’s capital, this city is rich in political history.
The drive to Martinborough whisks you out of the city on a fast moving motorway. You’ll wind through the picturesque Hutt Valley before climbing over the Rimutaka Range and descending into the tranquility of the Wairarapa region. If you don’t want to drive, a scenic train trip runs from Wellington to Featherston. After Featherston, which has an interesting locomotive museum, you’ll travel east towards Martinborough.
In recent years, Martinborough has become the gourmet capital of the lower North Island. It is home to over 25 boutique vineyards, several fabulous restaurants and a number of upmarket bed and breakfast establishments. From the charming town square, you can walk to most of the local attractions.
Scenic Highlights
Archives New Zealand
At Archives New Zealand, you can view fascinating displays based on historic documents, maps, paintings, photos and films.
Battle Hill Farm Forest Park
Enjoy sweeping views from hiking and riding trails in this historic forest park. Learn about Maori history while you relish the farm-fresh air.
Wellington Walkways
Views, forests, parks and gardens keep things interesting along these signposted Wellington walkways.
Wrights Hill Fortress and Recreation Reserve
Wrights Hill offers 360 degree views of Wellington and the surrounding area, as well as walking tracks and picnic areas.
Zealandia - The Karori Sanctuary Experience
This significant conservation attraction is located in a secluded suburban valley - just 2.5 kilometres from Wellington's central business district.
Makara Track
Makara Walking Track combines spectacular long-range views with a walk along a wild, west coast beach.
Matiu/Somes Island
Maori history, early European history, war stories and wildlife - this island, in the middle of Wellington Harbour, has it all.
National War Memorial and Carillon
In a beautiful art deco setting, learn about defining times in New Zealand's history and discover a huge musical bell instrument.
Mount Victoria
Breathtaking views and great walking tracks reward those who venture to the top of Mount Victoria.
Wellington Central Waterfront
Explore Wellington's waterfront on foot and visit Queens Wharf, Te Papa, Chaffers Marina and Oriental Bay.
Old Government Buildings
Feel the grace and elegance of the 1800s at Government Buildings, the largest wooden building in the southern hemisphere.
Wellington Botanic Garden
From ancient forests to colourful flower beds, the Wellington Botanic Garden is a delightful experience, completed by great views of the city and harbour.
Putangirua Pinnacles Scenic Reserve
You don't have to travel far to find yourself on another planet. The Putangirua Pinnacles are just an hour's drive from Martinborough.
Red Rocks Reserve
Put half a day aside for this easy coastal walk to Red Rocks and a fur seal colony on the south side of Wellington.
Activities
Wairarapa
Gardens (2),
Wineries (4)
Wellington
Arts & Crafts (2),
Galleries (2)
Tour and Sightseeing
Wairarapa
Gardens (1),
Wineries (3)
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