The Wairarapa

Introducing The Wairarapa

The Wairarapa is the large slab of land east and northeast of Wellington, beyond the craggy Tararua Range and Rimutaka Range. Named after Lake Wairarapa (Shimmering Waters), a shallow 8000-hectare lake, the region has traditionally been a frenzied hotbed of sheep-farming – there are more than three million sheep within 16km of Masterton (we counted ’em). More recently some brilliant wineries have sprung up around Martinborough and Greytown (Pinot Noir is the speciality), which has turned the region into a decadent weekend escape for Wellingtonians. A vigorous foodie culture has evolved alongside the wineries and restored B&B cottages. All this boozy hubbub doesn’t seem to impress some long-term locals, who remain bound to Bible Belt mentality – highway billboards warn, ‘You have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory.’

See www.wairarapanz.com for regional info. Note that the telephone area code over here is 06, not 04 like the rest of the Wellington region.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009