Wairarapa’s stargazing, food and wine is a brilliant combination and Lonely Planet agree! This recognition celebrates everything that makes our region truly special - where natural wonder meets rural charm, and our stars shine day and night.
A great day in Wairarapa is just the beginning of your visit here. Explore our villages with stylish shopping and cafes. Drink award winning wine and gently cycle between vineyards. Explore the rugged coast or Tararua ranges. Check into comfortable accommodation from the big range available.
Then at the end of a good Wairarapa day your night will really look up. The magic of our dark skies is right above you.
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.
