Masterton
Masterton is the Wairarapa's largest town and is rumoured to be the warmest Wairarapa town during the summer. The town was founded by the Small Farms Association, and named after its leader Joseph Masters. There is still a strong link to farming as the town of Masterton is surrounded by working farms and is the main hub for the smaller rural communities. Sheep farming is what Masterton was built on and this is celebrated with the town hosting the annual Golden Shears sheep-shearing competition, the world's premier shearing and wool handling championship.
Pūkaha Mount Bruce Wildlife Centre General Admission - Open-Dated Voucher
Set in 940 hectares of forest, Pūkaha is on State Highway 2, half way between Napier and Wellington right at the heart of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail. A perfect and special stop off point to learn about New Zealand’s very special environment. At Pūkaha, they are dedicated to restoring the forest and protecting and nurturing endangered birds and animals – particularly kiwi, kokako, kaka and tuatara. Pūkaha has a very successful breeding programme and is home to the only white kiwi in captivity in the world, Manukura.
Your entry fee covers seven daily wildlife talks and feeds as well as entry to the nocturnal house where you will see Manukura, the worlds only white kiwi in captivity. Also in the nocturnal house is Turua, another North Island Brown Kiwi. Enjoy a walk through free flight aviary where you can experience the bush as it was hundreds of years ago. Enjoy the birds flying around you while viewing the Whio (Blue duck) and Pateke (Brown Teal) on the river run.
The Wool Shed Museum of Sheep & Shearing
The Wool Shed is the New Zealand's National Museum of Sheep and Shearing. The museum prides itself on being hands-on, not your typical museum. You can touch and feel most of the exhibits, watch interactive displays and see physical woolsheds both old and new. Out the back there is even a rebuilt wool shed in the traditional style. Wool has been a backbone of the New Zealand's economy for a century and a half. You'll learn why wool has been so important in New Zealand's history and what makes us one of the best wool producers in the world. The Wool Shed Museum showcases wool in all its forms, from carpet, to clothing, fashion knitwear and other unique uses. There is an extensive gift shop with all manner of sheep and wool related products, great for that unique souvenir.
A popular style of touring is to take a preplanned self drive road trip. After a thorough consultation with you we expertly plan and create your self drive tour around New Zealand. These tours allow you the freedom to explore at leisure with the comfort and security of pre-booked activities and accommodations. Route suggestions, APP guidance plus local support mean your New Zealand vacation is in safe hands. See self drive ideas here
If you prefer to let someone else do the work then an escorted small group tour might be for you. Our sister company at New Zealanbd Coach has a range of hand picked small group itineraries are ideal if you prefer to travel in the company of like minded people. Tours are limited to a certain number of participants which means different accommodation options, exclusive activities and of course a knowledgeable guide ensures you get to see the best of New Zealand. See small group tours here.
A private guided tour offers true flexibility and the security of a knowledgeable local guiding you all the way. Well planned itineraries ensure you see exactly what you want to see but with your own driver-guide you can adapt to suit the day or your preference. 100% tailor-made to suit you a private tour is a great option when travelling as a small group. All our self drive itineraries can be replanned and priced using a private driver and guide, so if it is what you fancy just contact us to discuss.
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