itravelnz.com

Masterton Attractions and things to do

Published: 07/11/2012 by Destination Wairarapa

The town was founded in 1854 by the Small Farms Association, led by Joseph Masters, after whom the town was named. With the arrival of the railway line from Wellington in 1881, Masterton prospered, becoming the region’s main market town.

Attractions and things to do include:

• Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre, a 20-minute drive north of Masterton. There are wonderful walks through the native forest and check out feeding times for the eels and the kaka.
• Keep driving north to Mangatainoka’s Tui Brewery - you can book a tour, or drop into the bar and souvenir shop while enjoying a bite to eat at the new Tui HQ cafe.
• In town, Aratoi, Wairarapa’s Museum of Art and History, hosts a variety of local and national exhibitions in a sophisticated viewing space.
• The refurbished Copthorne Hotel and Resort Solway Park Wairarapa has swimming pools, restaurants, even a golf driving range.
• The Wool Shed (formerly The Shear Discovery Centre) tells the story of sheep farming in New Zealand through video and 3-D displays.
• Queen Elizabeth Park – within this peaceful 130-year-old park, there’s a playground, flying fox, miniature railway, mini golf, café, summer pony rides and paddle boats.
• Splash out! The Genesis Energy Recreation Centre features a hydroslide, indoor and outdoor pools.

» 1 Day in...