Discover Masterton

Masterton Tourism Directory | Discover Masterton

Masterton is the the largest town in the beautiful Wairarapa region, brimming with a wide range of things to do and places to visit. Top attractions include the Pukaha Mount Bruce Wildlife Centre and the Martinborough Wine Trail.

Masterton Overview

Masterton is a town set in the beautiful farming countryside of the Wairarapa region of New Zealand. With a mild, temperate climate, ideal for farming and grape growing, this region is well known for its award winning wineries. In fact, Masterton is nestled at the heart of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail.

There are numerous forest and mountain walks around Masterton and throughout the Wairarapa region with options to suit everyone. From 30 minute loop walks, to full multi-day tramps, these trails provide access to stunningly beautiful areas with views of Masterton and Tararua Range, and even a hidden lake.

A defining feature of Masterton is the annual Golden Shears shearing competition. Held in March, this popular event attracts top shearers from all over New Zealand.

Also held in March each year is the International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, a fantastic event with incredible sights particularly during the sunrise lift off and The Night Glow, where glowing balloons will put on a dazzling show choreographed to music.

The Wairarapa Line railway provides easy transport from Masterton to Wellington, Lower Hutt and Upper Hutt. There are 3 railway stations in Masterton. The bus services also provide suburbial and regional transport.

Masterton Highlights

Masterton offers a full range of kiwi attractions and activities, from jet boating to hot air ballooning, from fishing to surfing. Some of the most popular attractions include the Queen Elizabeth Park, Martinborough Wine Trail, Pukaha Mount Bruce Wildlife Centre and surrounding Pukaha Mount Bruce Forest, and the Wool Shed Museum.

Queen Elizabeth Park

Queen Elizabeth Park is a must for any family visiting Masterton. With beautiful gardens, QE Park boasts a great range of fun things to do and has been delighting children for over 130 years. With a truly impressive playground, flying fox, ducks to feed, BMX and skate park, mini golf and paddle boats on the lake there is plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Perhaps the highlight of the park is the miniature train.

Pukaha Mount Bruce Wildlife Centre

The Pukaha Mount Bruce Wildlife Centre, a breeding sanctuary for some of New Zealands most endangered birds, is located about 30 kilometre north of Masterton. Here you can be part of daily talks and feeds and even visit the nocturnal house where you can see the worlds only white kiwi in captivity. Other animals and birds include Kiwi, kereru, the Tuatara, eels and much more.

The Pukaha Mount Bruce Wildlife Centre is set in native bush, with the 942 hectare Pukaha Mount Bruce forest as its backdrop. The centre includes a 2 hour loop bushwalk, wheelchair access tracks, and an onsite cafe.

The Wool Shed Museum

The Wool Shed Museum is New Zealand's National Museum of Sheep and Shearing, and is a world class tourist attraction. This hands-on museum provides a fascinating look into the rich farming history of the Wairarapa region.

Masterton Tourism Directory