Castlepoint

Castlepoint has been voted one of the country's top 10 most loved beaches. Just an hour from Masterton, it's the perfect getaway, with swimming, surfing, walking trails galore and a rugged east coast vibe.

Starting from Christmas Eve, the 23m Castlepoint Lighthouse will be lit up in a stunning light display from 9pm – midnight every night. This new show will be on a 60 minute rotation featuring a range of coloured lights. Check out the live webcam feed of the lighthouse.

Fuel is available at the Whakataki Hotel 24 hours a day - pay at the pump.

Wake up by the sea! Book a bed on the Wairarapa coast.

Castlepoint highlights

• The lighthouse. First lit in 1913, it's one of the last two remaining beam lighthouses in NZ. Stroll up and imagine life as a lighthouse keeper - the last one was on the job until 1988.
• Fishing - try your luck!
• Pop into the beachfront store for a classic rolled icecream or espresso coffee.
• Play nine holes at the pretty Castlepoint golf course
• Visit historic Tinui - site of NZ's first Anzac service
• Climb the Deliverance Track to Castle Rock
• Horse races on the beach
• Enjoy great pub food and a pint at the Whakataki Hotel
• Explore the Mataikona Rocks, just 15 minutes' drive away

Check out our stunning Wairarapa coast! Here are some shots of Castlepoint and Cape Palliser.