Martinborough: Discover Wine Trails and Local History

Martinborough brings together vineyards, walking trails and a historic town centre. When planning your trip, you can choose different priorities: meeting winemakers, spending time outdoors or learning about the town’s history. Options range from guided wine tastings to routes through Martinborough Village or across farmland.

Vineyards and Meeting Producers

Martinborough has more than 20 vineyards, many of them within walking or cycling distance of the town square. Green Jersey offers bikes for hire, including for rides between vineyards. Martinborough is also a stop on the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail.

On Martinborough Wine Walks, small groups get a behind-the-scenes look. Visitors meet winemakers and grape growers, hear their personal stories and taste wines directly with the producers. Groups usually have up to ten people; this group size may change. If this is important for your plans, confirm the current details in advance.

Walking and Cycling Trails

The Rapaki Walk is a circular walk across farmland, with views of the Wairarapa Valley and Martinborough’s vineyards. A viewpoint above the Te Muna Valley is optional. The Palliser Vineyard Walk is listed as taking 50 minutes: the route loops around Palliser Vineyard to the river, then returns through the middle of the vineyard. Seasonal access conditions may change; check them before your visit.

To explore the town, follow the Marty Mural Trail on foot or by bike through Martinborough Village; it leads to eight colourful murals. Artworks and trail stops may change, so check the current route if you are looking for specific pieces. The Martinborough StoryWalk® starts at the upper end of Considine Park, at the corner of Kitchener Street and Princess Street, and ends at the exit on Vintner Lane. The Martinborough Heritage Trail, in turn, leads exclusively to historic sites within the town.

Squares, Museum and Local History

Memorial Square is at the heart of Martinborough and is also known as Union Square and Martinborough Square. The historic district in the town centre adds to the town’s character and charm and enhances its appeal as a destination. Individual buildings also tell the story of Martinborough’s development: the historic Martinborough Hotel was built in 1882.

The Martinborough Museum building was designed by renowned architect Charles Natusch. It opened as the town library in 1894 and became a museum in 1978. Today, the museum collects, preserves and presents material and information about the natural and cultural heritage of Martinborough and South Wairarapa.

Green Spaces and Finding Accommodation

The Considine and Centennial Park Reserve covers 6.47 hectares and includes open recreational areas, a swimming pool, a campground, equestrian facilities, a trail and notable trees. If you plan to use any of the facilities, check their current availability before your visit.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Kahutara, Pirinoa and Greytown.

Back to the regional travel overview: South Wairarapa District.