Masterton is a breath of fresh air – a lovely country town nestled on the Waipoua Stream. Laid back and wholesome, the town serves as the main hub for servicing the Greater Wairarapa Region. A world away in your Hertz rental car, explore the verdant lands of Masterton and its surrounds with the ultimate day trips from the town centre.
Traverse beautifully sculpted parks, majestic forests, grandiose mountains, quaint country towns and a whole host of spellbinding scenery in and around Masterton. Take the roads less travelled uncovering Masterton’s alluring hidden secrets as one of the most underrated holiday destinations in New Zealand’s North Island.
Explore Masterton and its Surrounds with your rental car
Life in Masterton is a little more streamlined than one would imagine. As the heart and soul of the Wairarapa Region, Masterton enjoys a wealth of outstanding attractions and natural wonders away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Wellington. See the sights in and around Masterton in this beautifully crafted family-friendly town.
Eco-sanctuaries have become synonymous with New Zealand living in more recent years with a nationwide endeavour to protect the country’s native wildlife. The Pukaha National Wildlife Centre is at the core of the nation’s defences reviving key sections of native forest and supporting numerous native animals in the Pukaha Reserve. Explore the reserve’s lush forest and inquisitive wildlife through a series of serene bushwalks and specialised enclosures – the ultimate day adventure from Masterton.
As a wonderful country town, Masterton is truly blessed with amazing scenery, none more spectacular than Queen Elizabeth Park. A firm favourite amongst locals, the park is home to a number of stunning exotic trees and plant life that helps breathe life into this wondrous environment. Enjoy a tranquil walk through the park, a pedal boat ride on the lake, a round of mini golf, the miniature railway, or the state-of-the-art playground for the kids. Alternatively, Henley Lake Park is just around the corner featuring incredible views of Henley Lake and the wonderful birdlife on the 4.3-kilometre gentle loop trail.
Delve into the informed minds of Masterton’s unique rural history with a visit to the Wool Shed Museum. Adjacent to Queen Elizabeth Park, this bizarre museum explores the history of New Zealand’s sheep farming culture and the art of sheep shearing through several engaging displays and historic relics. A further 5-minute drive east points to one of Masterton’s most exclusive collections – The Pointon Collection Car Museum. A vintage car lover’s dream, lust in admiration at the delicate assembly of antique cars, motorbikes and dated 1930s garments on a guided tour of the Pointon’s private collection. Other historical institutions worth a mention include – The Aratoi Wairarapa Museum of Art and History, The Vintage Aviator Museum, and the iconic bookstore – Hedley’s Books.
The Ultimate Day Trips from Masterton with your rental car
Your journey in Masterton has only just begun, with a myriad of attractions accessible only a short drive from town. Lying 100 kilometres south of Masterton is New Zealand’s cultural and creative hub – Wellington. One of the world’s most liveable cities and the nation’s capital, Wellington oozes charm with an extensive list of cultural institutions. Dive into the nation’s origins and cultural heritage at the world-famous Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa or Wellington’s unique maritime history at the Wellington Museum. Spy the city’s dazzling skyline from the iconic Wellington Cable Car or pay a visit to the award-winning Zealandia Ecosanctuary on the outskirts of town.
One of the ultimate day excursions from Masterton Downtown is a visit to the ethereal countryside of New Zealand’s Tararua Forest Park. Traverse the park’s rugged highlands and desolate backcountry on the popular Gentle Annie Loop Track or hike to Rocky Lookout for panoramic views of Mount Holdsworth and the Atiwhakatu valley. Go tramping (backpacking), hiking, hunting or white water rafting with options to stay overnight in a traditional backcountry hut.
A slight change of scenery will land you squarely in wine country in the gorgeous country town of Martinborough. A culinary delight, Martinborough is bursting at the seams taking gastronomy to new heights as a key pillar on New Zealand’s Classic Wine Trail. Indulge in world-class cuisine and only the finest of wines (responsibly) with over 20 family-owned vineyards residing in the region. Explore the enchanting village square and various historic buildings or hire a bike and tour the town.
Revel in the spoils of this large country town, the ultimate base for exploring the Wairarapa Region and Greater Wellington. Explore Masterton Downtown and its surroundings in your Hertz rental car today.
