The Wairarapa is well known for its beautiful coastline boasting wild natural beaches of black volcanic sand and the high seas of Lake Ferry and Cape Palliser. At Lake Ferry and Onoke Lake you can walk along the beach and take in the dramatic coastline and on a clear day spot the high mountain peaks of Kaikoura on the South Island. For lunch you can sit on the verandah of Lake Ferry Cafe overlooking Lake Onoke. Cape Palliser is the Southern most point of the North Island where you can take the steps up to the Cape Palliser Lighthouse and if your lucky see the seals basking amongst the rocks. O n the way from Martinborough to Cape Palliser is a great walking opportunity along the river bed to the Putangirua Pinnacles. The further you walk and explore the greater the reward!

Vineyard and wine tastings

Martinborough is rapidly increasing its reputation of producing world class wines. Predominantly one of the strongest Pinot Noir producing areas in the New World. These vineyards are very accessible and many just a short stroll away from Aylstone. Visit www.wairarapanz.com for a map of the vineyards and Cellar Door opening times.

Whats the best way of touring the vineyards -

Martinboroughs' flat landscape lends itself to the most popular way of touring the vineyards - cycling - its easy, relaxing and you are able to set your own pace. Purchasing a bottle of your favourite wine couldn't be easier, many vineyards in the area  will deliver your purchases to Aylstone at the end of the day, therefore you don't have to worry about carrying them with you during the day.

In Martinborough, next to the Information Centre is March Hare Cycles, your one stop bicycle hire that caters for all!

Visit their website www.march-hare.co.nz

If riding a bike doesnt appeal to you, or the weather is inclement there are other options.

Martinborough has some great wine tour operators: Martinborough Gourmet Wine Tours introduces you to four Boutique Vineyards including  lunch.

For more information visit their website www.tranzittours.co.nz

For an exclusive wine tour with your own private driver visit Martinborough Wine Tours at www.martinboroughwinetours.co.nz

Adventures

Martinborough offers a wide of things to do:

Patuna Farm Adventures offers horse trekking, navigating a rope course, walking a chasm, clay bird shooting,  visit www.patunafarm.co.nz

Quad Biking , www.wairarapaquads.co.nz

Golf

Martinborough has a lovely golf course, martinboroughgolfclub.co.nz

Events and Concerts

Events and concerts held in the Vineyards are becoming more prevalent with something special happening most weekends; especially during the summer months. In the winter months new and exciting events are developing every year, such as the Olive Harvest Festival, lighting up Martinborough Square for the weekend and involving the local restaurants in celebrating the Martinborough Olive Groves. Much like the vineyards, some of the Martinborough Olive Groves are open for tasting. For more information on the Olive Groves and upcoming events, festivals and activities please visit www.wairarapanz.com