Discover a charming rural village that’s both a serene getaway and a sought-after destination.
The charming town of Martinborough is the perfect place for a weekend getaway. Known for its heritage buildings and boutique wineries, it features the historic Martinborough Hotel (built in 1882) and more than 20 vineyards – many within walking or cycling distance from the town square. It’s also a stop on the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail and hosts Toast Martinborough(opens in new window), a popular annual wine and food festival held in November.
For outdoor enthusiasts, highlights include the Patuna Chasm Walkway(opens in new window), Cape Palliser Lighthouse(opens in new window), and Pūtangirua Pinnacles(opens in new window), spectacular natural pillar formations. Martinborough and the wider Wairarapa region have recently became an International Dark Sky Reserve(opens in new window), making the local guided stargazing tours(opens in new window) must-do experiences.
Martinborough is 80 km from Wellington and easiest to reach by car, taking around 70–90 minutes via State Highway 2 and State Highway 53. Public transport is also available: take a Metlink(opens in new window) train from Wellington to Featherston, then a connecting bus to Martinborough, which takes about two hours. Alternatively, book a shuttle or wine tour for a hassle-free trip and guided experience.
