This is a region of big skies, wide valleys and characterful small towns. As you arrive over the Rimutaka Hill the Wairarapa valley opens up before you, fringed by mountains to the west and rugged coast to the east. The place Maori called "Land of Glistening Waters" offers endless possibilities for getting away from it all.  Wairarapa is one of New Zealand's top food and wine destinations and is at the heart of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail (for more information visit www.classicwinetrail.co.nz). You can sample premium wines from the regions' vineyards, and try everything from country cooking to haute cuisine in the many cafes and restaurants.  It's a true escape - all within an hour's drive or train ride from Wellington. 

The Wairarapa region reputation as a gourmet's delight is however just one of the many highlights of the region.  Visitors to Wings Over Wairarapa can not only take the opportunity to taste premium wines and gourmet food, they can experience the tranquility of a hot-air balloon, the relaxation of day spas, the remoteness of the coast and native wonders of Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre.  Or perhaps they would prefer to be intrigued by the mysteries of the stars at Stonehenge Aotearoa, walk historic Victorian streets or scenic mountain tracks, visit boutique stores, museums and art galleries or perhaps grab the golf clubs and stroll top-class greens or quirky rural courses.  In short there is something for everyone in off-the-beaten track Wairarapa.

For more information on accommodation options and the regions many attractions and activities, visit www.wairarapanz.com.

For details on specialist Gourmet Wine and Garden Escapes, visit www.tranzit.co.nz.

Assisi Gardens, Gladstone