The Best of Wairarapa Wine Country

Collect your hire car and drive to Martinborough, which is located in the Wairarapa region and considered to be one of the most important wine regions in the world. Packed with colonial charm, the town has plenty of art galleries and museums that showcase local art works, as well as some enticing restaurants, not to mention Pinot Noir (50 miles).

While away an hour or so strolling Martinborough's quaint town square, which has a variety of unique boutiques and plenty of eateries where you can grab a bite to eat. This afternoon, look forward to a private afternoon tour, during which you will visit four vineyards, one is large and the remainder much smaller and more off-the-beaten-track. You'll have the opportunity to taste the local tipple and learn all there is to know about wine making.

Linger a while longer if you wish in Martinborough before you drive the short distance to Greytown, considered to be one of the North Island's prettiest towns. Brimming with beautiful Victorian buildings, rural landscapes and tree-lined avenues, it's surrounded by rolling olive groves and sprawling farmlands (12 miles).

Spend the day as you wish. Perhaps hire a bike and pedal along some of the many cycle routes, go olive tasting, or chocolate tasting at Schoc Chocolate Studio, or buy some provisions in town and picnic along the riverside. If you prefer, drive slightly further afield and explore more of the Wairarapa region, which boasts spectacular coastlines, wide valleys and a slower pace of life.

Take in more of the lovely surroundings and perhaps buy a few foodie treats to take away with you, before you return to Wellington where you return your car and depart for your onward journey.