Lake Ferry (Lake Onoke)

Lake Ferry is a small settlement between the shores of Lake Onoke and Palliser Bay. Settlement in this area dates back hundreds of years. Archaeological research suggests that there were people living here from the 12th century until about 1600. Later, Maori settlers came to live mainly around Lake Onoke and the adjoining lakes.

European settlers brought sheep and cattle into this area in 1844, driving their stock along the coastal route from Wellington. These run holders were the first to establish pastoral farming in New Zealand.

Following a drowning in 1850, a ferry service was established across Lake Onoke. The ferryman needed accommodation and a way to supplement his income, so he opened the Lake Ferry Hotel in 1851.

Today Lake Ferry is a mixture of holiday homes and permanent residents. Nearby attractions include the Putangirua Pinnacles, Cape Palliser lighthouse and a seal colony. If you're in the area late afternoon, stay to watch the sun go down - Lake Ferry sunsets can be spectacular.

Castlepoint Scenic Reserve

With its fossil-rich limestone reef, lighthouse and magnificent 162 metre high Castle Rock, Castlepoint is one of the most spectacular sites along the Wairarapa coastline. The area was named in 1770 by Captain Cook, who observed that Castle Rock resembled the battlements of a castle.

The reef, lagoon, sand dunes and Castle Rock are all part of Castlepoint Scenic Reserve. There are two short walks to explore Lighthouse Walk (30 minutes return) and Deliverance Cove Track (1.5 hours return).

Castlepoint's beach is often visited by dolphins and fur seals. Look also for sea birds - white-fronted terns, red-billed gulls and black shags inhabit the south end of the reef; reef herons and black-backed gulls nest on the sheer cliffs of Castle Rock.

If you're botanically inclined, hunt for the Castlepoint daisy, Brachyglottis compactus, which grows on the crumbled limestone of the reef and Castle Rock. Castlepoint is the only place in the world where you'll find this particular daisy.

If you decide to stay longer than a day, there is a camping ground and self contained accommodation available.