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Te Papa TongarewaMuseumVictorian houses, Oriental Bay, WellingtonThe Museum of New Zealand, Te PapaTongarewa, is one of Wellington’s keyattractions. Renowned for its innovative andhighly educational exhibits which offerinteractive fun for visitors, its success isbased on its ability to remain fresh andexciting while representing all facets of thecommunity. The Maori name literallytranslates as ‘container of treasures’, and theexhibits span five main areas including artand history, Pacific and Maori culture, andthe natural environment.Despite its humble origins as the ColonialMuseum, which opened in a small woodenbuilding in 1865, Te Papa has grown intoNew Zealand’s most comprehensive archive.One of many Maori carvings on displayTe Papa TongarewaIts modern position dominates Wellington’sharbour front and is both an engineeringfeat and symbolic masterpiece. Entry is free,so you can choose to visit for an hour ortwo, or much longer, to learn about Maoriand settler history and New Zealand’spolitical, environmental and economicposition historically and up to the presentday. With an ever-changing programme ofevents and exhibits no two visits to Te Papaare the same.Farmland near Martinborough, WairarapaThe Wairarapa RegionTo the east of Wellington in the southeast cornerof the North Island, the Wairarapa Region is anattractive agricultural area famed for its beef anddairy farming, olive groves and wonderfulvineyards. There are forested valleys, an unspoiltcoastline and numerous small towns full ofcharacter. Lake Wairarapa, the biggest wetlandarea in the lower North Island is home to bothnative and migratory birds. Located close to rollingfields the historic Martinborough wine village hasplenty of cafés, restaurants and arts and craftsshops. After a lunch in the picturesque square youcan visit local vineyards on an afternoon tastingtour. To the north is Greytown, a quaint colonialvillage with a pioneering history. It was foundedin 1854 by early settlers who travelled acrosscountry with scant possessions carried by fourbullocks. The small shelters and cottages theybuilt can still be seen today.Aylstone Boutique Retreat, MartinboroughPeppers Parehua,MartinboroughSet around a willow-fringed lake against amountainous backdrop, Peppers offers a series ofluxury cottages, suites and villas with spaciousrooms and designer furnishings. Private decks,stunning views and local artwork lend a secludedbut personal touch, while the park-like groundsconceal a restaurant, tennis court and a swimmingpool (open summer months) in the tranquilwoodlands. Just a short walk from charmingMartinborough, the resort offers stylishcontemporary accommodation in the heart ofthe world-class Wairarapa wine region.Aylstone Boutique Retreat,MartinboroughLocated on the edge of Martinborough village,the Aylstone Boutique Retreat is a secluded andelegant getaway. Surrounded by vines andmountains each of the six beautifully appointedrooms are designed in a French provincial stylewith lovely furniture. Each has a private deck orcourtyard, perfect for taking in the wonderfulviews. The retreat is close to a couple of excellentrestaurants and your hosts will be all too happy tomake a reservation for you. One of the nicestaspects of a stay here are complimentary bicyclesavailable for guests wishing to go for a spin onthe flat roads that cross through the vineyardsof the area.Peppers Parehua, MartinboroughThe Kapiti CoastThe golden beaches of the Kapiti Coast extendnorth of Wellington past the seaside towns ofParaparaumu and Waikanae. This area is agourmand’s delight with local olive groves, cheeseand ice cream producers, as well as a cookingschool and chocolate factory. Though themainland coastline is stunning, the region is mostfamous for Kapiti Island, one of the country’s mostimportant nature reserves. Created by giantearthquakes in the distant past, the island is justten kilometres long and two wide. As a birdsanctuary it has played a significant part inprotecting many species and access to the islandis limited to just 50 visitors per day, ensuringprotection of this important marine environment.www.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l North Island 31