Day 1: Explore and fuel up
- Arrive in Wairarapa via SH2 – take in the scenic drive.
- Stop in one of our towns to stretch your legs, enjoy some shopping, or grab a coffee and treats. C’est Cheese, Moore Wilsons or Aunt Gingers Kitchen are the perfect places to grab some tasty treats.
- Stay in Carterton or Masterton ready for an early start in the morning. Dine at The Screening Room, Horseshoe Taproom or The Farriers Bar & Eatery in Masterton.
Day 2: Head to the hills
Before you head off make sure you are carrying plenty of water, snacks, a headtorch and warm clothing. Hut tickets and local trail information is available at the Martinborough isite Visitor Information Centre.
- Head towards Mount Holdsworth, the gateway to Tararua Forest Park – the North Island’s largest conservation park and the perfect spot for trampers, walkers and nature lovers.
- Begin your day early and set out on the Mount Holdsworth Track to Powell Hutt.
- The trail winds through beech forest and past the Rocky Lookout, with fantastic views of the Wairarapa valley.
- It’s a moderate to challenging 3–4 hour hike to the hut, rewarding you with spectacular alpine scenery as you climb.
- There are some beautiful swimming holes along the way if you fancy a dip!
Day 2: a night at Powell Hut
- Arrive at Powell Hut (1,200m) – a modern DOC hut perched on the edge of the ranges.
- Settle in, rest your legs, and enjoy a well-earned meal.
- As night falls, step outside the hut and look up - you’re high in one of New Zealand’s few Dark Sky Reserves, where the stars stretch endlessly overhead.
- Remember to pack warm layers, it can get chilly even in summer.
Day 3: Morning glory
- Wake up early to watch the sunrise over Wairarapa, an unforgettable reward for your climb.
- Descend from Powell Hut, taking your time to enjoy native birdsong and the lush forest canopy.
- Return to Carterton for a hearty brunch at Aunt Gingers or head to Urlar Vineyard for a relaxed lunch and local wine.
Day 3: A gentle walk
Keen to do a short walk today? Waiohine Gorge is close to Carterton where you can cross the dramatic suspension bridge, swim in the river below, or simply relax by the water.
There are lots of walks in the region, you can search them here.
Be first to know...
Want the latest news and events?
Sign up to our newsletters to stay in the loop with everything good going on in Wairarapa.
© Copyright 2026, Destination Wairarapa.