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A full-day loop from Wellington that pairs boutique Martinborough wine tastings with raw southern Wairarapa coastline: Putangirua Pinnacles, a permanent seal colony, and the climb to Cape Palliser Lighthouse. Expect a long, varied day with moderate walking and plenty of viewpoints.
A full-day loop from Wellington that pairs boutique Martinborough wine tastings with raw southern Wairarapa coastline: Putangirua Pinnacles, a permanent seal colony, and the climb to Cape Palliser Lighthouse. Expect a long, varied day with moderate walking and plenty of viewpoints.
The bus eases out of Wellington and climbs the Remutaka Ranges; wind-scoured tussock and sudden gullies slide past the window as your guide sketches the day ahead. By midmorning you’re tasting pinot under open sky in Martinborough’s small-cellar wineries, then trading vineyard views for raw coastline—salt spray and steep cliffs—at Cape Palliser where 252 steps deliver sweeping Cook Strait vistas.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Zozo Travel - Tours of Wellington. Scenic, Winery, Brewery and Foodie Tours · Martinborough, Wellington
The bus eases out of Wellington and climbs the Remutaka Ranges; wind-scoured tussock and sudden gullies slide past the window as your guide sketches the day ahead. By midmorning you’re tasting pinot under open sky in Martinborough’s small-cellar wineries, then trading vineyard views for raw coastline—salt spray and steep cliffs—at Cape Palliser where 252 steps deliver sweeping Cook Strait vistas.
This full-day loop threads colonial towns, Māori and European settlement history, and dramatic geology: the Putangirua Pinnacles are formed by millions of years of erosion—sedimentary pinnacles rising from an ancient river delta. The region’s cultural notes are plain in Greytown’s heritage main street, artisan chocolatiers, and in the lighthouse’s late-19th-century signal history that guided coastal shipping. Wildlife punctuates the scene; at Ngawi and surrounding rocks, New Zealand fur seals haul out on boulders while seabirds wheel offshore.
Practical guide: expect a 10-hour day with a mix of short walks on uneven tracks, winery cellar steps and the lighthouse stair climb—moderate fitness and steady footwear recommended. Wine tastings are included but legally limited to guests 18+. Lunch and dinner at local venues pair simple regional fare with boutique wines. Dress in layers for rapidly changing coastal weather; carry a refillable water bottle and binoculars for seals and seabirds. The tour runs in all weather; operators advise booking pickup in Wellington. Keep distance from seals and stick to marked tracks at Putangirua to protect fragile pinnacles. Arrive ready to swap tasting notes, fill your camera, and finish the day with one of the best fish-and-chips views in the lower North Island.
moderate.
10 hours.
Good for travelers with moderate fitness—able to handle several short walks, stairs and a long day on a coach.
Yes—wine tasting is restricted to guests 18 years and older; the operator may check ID at tasting venues.
Yes—air-conditioned transport, lunch (main dish and one drink) and dinner (main dish and one drink) are included as stated in the itinerary.
The tour operates in all weather; coastal sections can be windy or wet—operators advise dressing appropriately and may adjust the schedule if safety is a concern.
The lighthouse requires climbing 252 steps from the car park; it’s not recommended for those with serious mobility limitations.
The area combines Māori coastal use and later 19th-century European farming and lighthouse navigation; Martinborough was surveyed in a grid plan by European settlers in the late 1800s.
Stick to marked tracks, avoid approaching or feeding seals, and support local producers who emphasize low-impact viticulture and coastal habitat protection.
Zozo Travel - Tours of Wellington. Scenic, Winery, Brewery and Foodie Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
The bus eases out of Wellington and climbs the Remutaka Ranges; wind-scoured tussock and sudden gullies slide past the window as your guide sketches the day ahead. By midmorning you’re tasting pinot under open sky in Martinborough’s small-cellar wineries, then trading vineyard views for raw coastline—salt spray and steep cliffs—at Cape Palliser where 252 steps deliver sweeping Cook Strait vistas.
The bus eases out of Wellington and climbs the Remutaka Ranges; wind-scoured tussock and sudden gullies slide past the window as your guide sketches the day ahead. By midmorning you’re tasting pinot under open sky in Martinborough’s small-cellar wineries, then trading vineyard views for raw coastline—salt spray and steep cliffs—at Cape Palliser where 252 steps deliver sweeping Cook Strait vistas.
This full-day loop threads colonial towns, Māori and European settlement history, and dramatic geology: the Putangirua Pinnacles are formed by millions of years of erosion—sedimentary pinnacles rising from an ancient river delta. The region’s cultural notes are plain in Greytown’s heritage main street, artisan chocolatiers, and in the lighthouse’s late-19th-century signal history that guided coastal shipping. Wildlife punctuates the scene; at Ngawi and surrounding rocks, New Zealand fur seals haul out on boulders while seabirds wheel offshore.
Practical guide: expect a 10-hour day with a mix of short walks on uneven tracks, winery cellar steps and the lighthouse stair climb—moderate fitness and steady footwear recommended. Wine tastings are included but legally limited to guests 18+. Lunch and dinner at local venues pair simple regional fare with boutique wines. Dress in layers for rapidly changing coastal weather; carry a refillable water bottle and binoculars for seals and seabirds. The tour runs in all weather; operators advise booking pickup in Wellington. Keep distance from seals and stick to marked tracks at Putangirua to protect fragile pinnacles. Arrive ready to swap tasting notes, fill your camera, and finish the day with one of the best fish-and-chips views in the lower North Island.