Wairarapa

Wairarapa is a region of big skies, wide valleys and small towns, full of character. With three major forest parks and a wild stretch of coast it offers endless possibilities for outdoor adventures or just getting away from it all. It's also one of New Zealand's top food and wine destinations offering some of the country's premium wines and everything from country cooking to fine cuisine in the many cafes, vineyards and restaurants. The Wairarapa is a true escape - all within an hour's drive of Wellington, and at the heart of the Classic NZ Wine Trail. Highlights of a trip to the Wairarapa include:

• Tui Brewery - enjoy a Tui HQ tasting and tour experience.
• Riversdale and Castlepoint - the best swimming, surfing and fishing beaches on the coast.
• Tararua Forest Park, an accessible wilderness close to Masterton.
• Stonehenge Aotearoa - a full-scale working adaptation of England's Stonehenge.
• Carterton's Paua World, offers jewellery made from New Zealand's paua.