Wairarapa
Wairarapa is the expansive area northeast of Wellington, over the Rimutaka and Tararua ranges, that is known for its lush farmland, vineyards and further afield, wild capes and coastlines.
With Wellington house prices going crazy, commuters have been looking further up the line – the train line that is – and small towns such as Featherston and Carterton in the Wairarapa have seen investors flock. Commuter trains link Wellington with Masterton, Wairarapa’s main town, daily.
While Wairarapa farmland is picturesque, the reason most visitors turn up is to visit the superb vineyards of Martinborough. This is a favourite sojourn for Wellingtonians, though off the train line, so you’ll want your own wheels to get here – unless you want to take a tour: see Martinborough Wine.
Consider staying and eating at the classic Martinborough Hotel, and it’s not all about wine. The Martinborough Brewery produces some tasty brews.
If you’re trying to get away from it all, consider visiting the famed, remote points of Cape Palliser and Castlepoint.