Wairarapa Scenic Highlights

Wairarapa | Regional Information | Activity Highlights | Scenic Highlights | History

Allow time to explore the untouched nature of Wairarapa's wild areas. Enjoy landscapes unlike anything you've seen before, stroll through beautifully manicured gardens and untouched forests.

Wairarapa Scenic Highlights Overview

The untouched nature of Wairarapa's wild areas lets you enjoy landscapes unlike anything you've seen before. Put time aside to explore the refreshing parks and reserves.

» Wairarapa Attractions Directory

See the Seals and the Sights at Cape Palliser

Image Source: Tourism New Zealand. Fur Seal Pup, Wairarapa, New Zealand

Fur Seal Pup, Wairarapa
Photographer: Ian Trafford
(www.iantraffordphotos.com)

Cape Palliser is home to the largest breeding colony of fur seals in the North Island. It's also the place to see the majestic Putangirua Pinnacles, which were formed 120,000 years ago by heavy rain eroding an ancient gravel deposit.

For spectacular views of the coast and South Island, climb 250 steps to the top of the Cape Palliser lighthouse.

» Cape Palliser Information

Choose Your Forest and Hit the Trail

The Wairarapa's three Forest Parks (Rimutaka, Tararua and Aorangi) provide a unique insight into New Zealand's native flora and fauna.

The National Wildlife Centre at Mount Bruce north of Masterton is set amongst 60 hectares of native forest. As well as showcasing New Zealand forest, it's a centre for the breeding and studying of endangered species of native wildlife. Take a guided tour or guide yourself around.

A Garden Lover's Paradise

The Wairarapa is the place to appreciate gardens and the passion of New Zealand gardeners, either on your own or with a local garden tour guide.

Wander the spacious landscaped grounds of grand historical homesteads or enjoy the unstructured prettiness of country cottage gardens.

The best times to visit are September to April, but some gardens are open all year.

Waiohine Gorge

Waiohine Gorge, Wairarapa
Photographer: Ian Trafford
(www.iantraffordphotos.com)

Waiohine Gorge, carved by the Waiohine River, is the spectacular south eastern entrance to the Tararua Forest Park. A swing bridge forms an impressive gateway. Several tracks into the Tararua Forest Park begin here.

The river is popular for rafting, kayaking and river bugging. There are two abseiling platforms (with secure anchor points) and several safe swimming pools suitable for swimmers of all ages. The gorge is a popular camping and recreation area.

» Waiohine Gorge Information

Putangirua Pinnacles Scenic Reserve

The 'badlands erosion' of Putangirua Pinnacles is a spectacular landscape feature.

The majestic pinnacles were formed over the past 120,000 years by heavy rain which gradually eroded an ancient gravel deposit, eventually forming spectacular individual pinnacles or 'hoodoos'.

Three routes lead to the pinnacles—allow two to three hours for a round trip. For a longer walk, with excellent views of Palliser Bay, allow three to four hours for a round trip.

» Putangirua Pinnacles Scenic Reserve Information