Martinborough

Located in the Wairarapa, Martinborough is just one hour's drive from New Zealand's capital city Wellington. Martinborough has long been a favourite weekend destination for those seeking escape from the city. Now that Martinborough's fame has spread, more and more New Zealanders and overseas visitors are enjoying the Martinborough region's rural charm and hospitality.

The key attraction of Martinborough (apart from its high number of sunshine hours and low rainfall) is wine and all that goes with wine tastings, buying, talking with Martinborough's winemakers, walking through Martinborough's vineyards and generally absorbing the Martinborough atmosphere. But Martinborough's scale is perhaps it's greatest advantage. Everything is boutique-style, the big wine producers are absent. Park your car in the Square and stroll to the vineyards, the nearest is only 5 minutes away. The Square forms the centre of the interesting 'Union Jack' flag layout of the streets.

Whatever your interest, we at The Claremont will advise you on what are the best activities for you and we can make arrangements for all your needs. Here are a few of our recommended suggestions:

Golf Cross - Patuna Farm

Here's a great new golf option! Try something a little different with Golf Cross. A new game played with an oval ball using goals, not holes. The course is on a working farm in a beautiful river valley. Use your own clubs or hire on site. Catering also available on request.

Website: www.patunafarm.co.nz

Horse Trekking – Patuna Farm

Meander along a crystal clear river or ride the ridge tops to experience the incredible views of South Wairarapa, on horseback. A great way to view our magnificent slice of New Zealand.

Website: www.patunafarm.co.nz

Adventure Courses – Patuna Farm

Would you like to take on the Pole to Pole Ropes Course in the fantastic Wairarapa hill country and be challenged? Or you could try the Big Swing for a pure adrenalin rush. These and many other options available at Patuna Farm.

Website: www.patunafarm.co.nz

The World Of Paua

Discover The World of Paua - open 7 days. Visit the factory and view the crafting of quality jewellery and gifts. Enjoy a free tea or coffee in the tearooms surrounded by a wonderful undersea mural.

Website: www.pauashell.co.nz

Wairarapa Gourmet Wine Escapes

Wairarapa Gourmet Wine Escapes offer a great day out. Enjoy wine-tastings at four Martinborough wineries, a light lunch at one of the many cafes and finish the day with a visit to the Martinborough Wine Centre.

Website: www.tranzit.co.nz

Other Martinborough Options

You can enjoy the action or just relax with a pleasant chardonnay and totally unwind.

• Golf - a picturesque and well renowned golf course
• Squash and tennis courts
• Smallbore rifle shooting
• Walks and Hikes - a range of pleasant scenic walks as well as longer hikes around the plains, hills and mountains
• Hau Nui Wind Farm - 21km South East of Martinborough
• Seal Colony at Ngawi - see them in their natural habitat – a truly wonderful experience. Just remember to respect their space especially when they have young
• Toast Martinborough held in November of each year, with tickets through Ticketek
• TK Day is hosted by Te Kairanga Vineyard and is a day of fun, live music, great local wines, and should be a must on your ...... calendar (usually held in January each year)
• The Martinborough Country Fair is held on the first Saturday of February and March. This popular fair is one of New Zealand's largest with a huge variety of things to see and many interesting things to buy.

Please contact your hosts at The Claremont for more information about these and other attractions and activities in the area.