Lake Wairarapa

Just 10 minutes from Featherston is Lake Wairarapa, the third largest lake in the North Island. Lake Wairarapa is surrounded by wetlands which drain into Lake Onoke and makes up a large part of Wairarapa Moana. The lake itself is 78km² in area, with a depth of about 2.5 metres.

Wairarapa Moana

The largest wetland in southern North Island, Wairarapa Moana covers over 9000 hectares. The area has traditionally been important to local Maori as an area for the gathering of food and plant material.

Wairarapa Moana is a great place for walking and getting out to enjoy some of the local wildlife of national and international significance. For example, head along Onoke Spit for a look across the sea channel toward Lake Ferry. Stick to the highest part of the narrow spit, however, as the adjacent side is home to rare species of plants and birds and is the breeding ground for the rare Caspian Tern. Keep an eye out for the banded dotterel, albatross and penguins, or out to sea look for dolphins, seals, and the occasional whale.

Things to do nearby

• Featherston
  Stop in Featherston and browse the bookshops before travelling to the Lake Domain Reserve, only a 10-minute drive.
• Greytown
  20 minutes drive from Greytown. Have a day of shopping and nature.
• Places to eat and drink
  
  • Featherston has eats and drinks to enjoy, or stock up with a picnic to enjoy once you arrive.
    
  • Lake Ferry Hotel, you must try their fish & chips with a side of sunset. Carry on driving for 40 minutes.