Wairarapa stargazing, food & wine

lonely planet's best in travel

Lonely Planet has selected Wairarapa’s stargazing, food and wine as one of the world’s top experiences for 2026. We're over the moon, come and celebrate with us!

Top quality dark skies. Alongside world-class hospitality. Just an hour from Wellington.

The stars of Wairarapa aren’t only in our skies – they shine brightly in our villages, cafes and restaurant specially in our vineyards.

As one of only 22 International Dark Sky Reserves in the world, Wairarapa’s the perfect place to enjoy starry skies plus world-class hospitality.  Just an hour’s scenic drive or train ride from Wellington.

Wairarapa offers a range of stargazing options with the comforts of civilisation close by. Simply step outside and look up in wonder or take a fully guided experience led by local experts.

By day, by night Wairarapa Stargazing, – Lonely Planet “Best in Travel” Top 25 Experience 2026.