The Wellington region covers the southern end of the North Island and includes, New Zealand’s capital city also named Wellington.  With three contrasting coastlines and mountainous ranges this region is incredibly diverse.  The weather can be wild and windy and the area is prone to earth quakes.  But don’t let that stop you experiencing plains of thriving vineyards, the metropolis of the capital city or the challenging mountain ranges that is a hikers paradise.

CAPE PALLISER

If you are visiting Wellington and have a spare day or two, it is worth taking a drive over the Rimutaka Hills to spend some time exploring the Wairarapa. This is a fantastic wine region and at the very bottom of the North Island you will find the Cape Palliser Lighthouse. As you drive along the coastal road to the lighthouse keep an eye out for seals. Here is where you will find the largest colony in the North Island. Between November and January you might be lucky to spot some pups. Remember they are wild animals so don’t get too close!

CASTLEPOINT

Castlepoint is well known for its iconic lighthouse. One of only two beam lighthouses left in NZ. This beach is really popular in the summertime and for Xmas you can expect to see a spectacular light display from the lighthouse that starts at 9pm each night. Just an hour from Masterton, it’s a great getaway for swimming and surfing with loads of walking trails and a rugged east coast vibe.

PUKAHA MOUNT BRUCE

This is Manukura, a rare white Kiwi that lives at Pukaha, Mount Bruce. This Wildlife Center is a 20 minute drive from Masterton. To see a Kiwi is special but a white one is something else! Pukaha Mount Bruce is the only place in NZ where you will also see the hihi (stitchbird) in aviaries. There is also plenty of North Island Kaka (a native parrot), whio (blue duck) and kakariki (a native parakeet). As well as a friendly North Island Kokako called Kahurangi. Other incredible animals you will see include giant eels and the amazing tuatara. A real treat is being around for the feeding of the kaka in the afternoon. This place puts a lot of time and resources into supporting conservation efforts and our some of our endangered species. If you are in the area you want to make sure you visit this National Wildlife Center. 

ROUTE 52

Have you ever driven Route 52? Its a former state highway that runs from Waipukurau in the Central Hawkes Bay, to Masterton in the Wairarapa. It passes through some interesting little farm settlements. The highway goes to the coastline at Porangahau and then continues on through Weber, Waione, Pongaroa, and Tiraumea before heading west to Alfredton and lastly Masterton. The route is not just for cars but it is also a cycle trail. Graded intermediate this 200km adventure is recommended to do over two days. Whatever your wheels this is a great alternative route to take if you are travelling between the Wairarapa and the Hawkes Bay.