Castlepoint

Wine, Food and Wairarapa Coast Overnight Tour

Embark on a two-day round trip tour from Wellington, exploring the spectacular south and east Wairarapa coasts and the region’s charming townships. Highlights include visits to Rivendell, the Putangirua Pinnacles, Cape Palliser Lighthouse, and Castlepoint. Enjoy tastings at boutique artisan wine, cheese, and chocolate producers, along with two lunches and one dinner at classic New Zealand country hotels.


DAY ONE

  • Enjoy a brief scenic stop at the tranquil Stuart Macaskill Lakes—an ideal spot for photos and fresh air.

  • Take a short walk across the swing bridge into untouched podocarp rainforest. Marvel at ancient kahikatea trees over a thousand years old, and visit the iconic Lord of the Rings film location—Rivendell.

  • Journey over the majestic Remutaka Ranges with a sightseeing stop at the summit to soak in the breathtaking views.

  • Relax with a seaside lunch at the Lake Ferry Hotel on the wild South Wairarapa coast, nestled beside Lake Onoke.

  • Venture into the dramatic ‘badlands’ landscape of the Putangirua Pinnacles. This optional 1.5-hour return walk offers a moderately challenging but rewarding hike with surreal scenery.

  • Climb the 252 steps to reach the Cape Palliser Lighthouse, perched at the southeasternmost point of the North Island. Take in sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged coastline.

  • Dine at Union Square in the historic Martinborough Hotel—ranked among New Zealand’s top 100 restaurants. Enjoy locally inspired cuisine in a refined yet relaxed setting.

DAY TWO

  • Head to the eastern Wairarapa coast and the picturesque township of Castlepoint, named by Captain Cook in 1770. Walk through pine groves above the lagoon at Castlepoint Scenic Reserve, ascend Castle Rock for panoramic coastal views, and visit the iconic Castlepoint Lighthouse. (The Castle Rock ascent is optional and requires moderate fitness.)

  • Stop for lunch at the charming Whakataki Hotel, rich in local character and history.

  • Indulge in a tasting experience at Schoc Chocolates, with over 60 handcrafted flavours to tempt every palate.

  • Visit a world-class Martinborough winery for a cellar door tasting. Sample acclaimed pinot noir and other varietals in one of New Zealand’s premier wine regions.

  • Wrap up the day with a tasting at C’est Cheese, an artisan cheesemaker offering a selection of locally crafted cheeses.

Includes

  • Entry or admission fee

  • Goods & services tax

  • Food & drinks

  • Meals (Lunch x2, Dinner x1) are included.

  • Tasting and entry fees are included at every location.

Excludes

  • Accommodation
    Please confirm you own accommodation in Martinborough, Greytown or Masterton. Zozo Travel can assist with these bookings if required.

  • Breakfast on Day 2
    There will be scope for a cafe breakfast at the guests expense if required.

No exclusivity guaranteed. Guests may share the vehicle with others.

What to Bring

Please bring ID. Drinking age in New Zealand is 18 years and above.

Bring a warm jacket and comfortable shoes. Hiking boots are recommended for those doing the Putangirua Pinnacles track.