Luxury holidays in South Wairarapa District

When to go

Summer in the South Wairarapa District (December to February) is a beautiful time, with hot, clear days and long, still evenings – but this is also when New Zealanders are on holidays, so things can get a bit hectic. A better bet is to visit during autumn (March to April) when the grapes are being harvested, the kids are back at school and days resonate with post-summer nostalgia.

Getting there

• Planes

  The closest international airport to the South Wairarapa District is Wellington Airport (www.wellingtonairport.co.nz), about two hours drive away. Air New Zealand (www.airnewzealand.com) flies daily between Auckland and Masterton in South Wairarapa District (return from NZ$210).

• Trains

  Tranz Metro (www.tranzmetro.co.nz) trains run daily between Wellington and Masterton (NZ$14), stopping at Featherston, Greytown and Carterton.

• Automobiles

  The best way to explore the Wairarapa is with your own wheels. Pick up a hire car in Wellington: all the international big-name companies have offices at Wellington Airport, or at the ferry terminal if you’re arriving by sea from the South Island.

• Taxis

  Masterton Taxis (06 378 2555) services the region’s main towns.