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What’s on in New Zealand

 

Masterton, Wairarapa

 

 

Masterton is only 1.5 hours north of Wellington, and in 2017 was named New Zealand’s most beautiful city. If you are coming from the South Island make sure you take advantage of the Family Parks Travel Rewards member discount from Bluebridge, to get you across the Cook Strait. If you are not already a Family Parks Travel Rewards member, you can join here.

 

The Masterton recreation precinct is a two minute walk from the park and is home to QEII Park, a swimming complex, adventure playground, mini golf, shops, cafes, and much more!

 

Alongside every day attractions such as scenic cycle trails, boutique shopping, local art and award winning eateries, the Wairarapa is also known for its annual event line up.

 

Wings Over Wairarapa
February – Biannually

Wings Over Wairarapa is a Bi- Annual Air Show and is renowned as an outstanding, professional flying programme with a family friendly atmosphere. The show rivals any other for display content and reputation, and is a significant event on the Australasian aviation events calendar.

 

Whether you are an aviation enthusiast or just want an entertaining weekend away for the Family. The Air Show has a lot to offer. In addition to the spectacular flying programme there are fantastic ground displays and activities, to keep the whole family entertained.

 

Martinborough Fair
February & March – Annually

The Martinborough Fair is held each year on the First Saturday of February and March, in the picturesque Martinborough Square.

 

This iconic fair, reportedly the largest in Australasia, comprises over 480 stalls selling top quality New Zealand artwork, crafts, clothing, local produce, set alongside a range of music and entertainment. Thousands of visitors’ flock to town each year for the event, so do what the locals do and get there early.

 

Castlepoint Races
March – Annually

The thundering of hooves across wet sand and the cheering of the crowd is the sound of the Castlepoint Races, an annual Wairarapa Event.

 

The Castlepoint Races date back to 1872 when the local farmhands would race each other for bottles of rum and stray coins. Today, thoroughbreds have replaced farm hacks and the day is as much about picnicking and family as it is about horses. Betting is allowed but you’ll be allocated a horse at random, for a ticket of $2.

 

This historic event is weather dependent.

 

Golden Shears – The world’s premier shearing and woolhandling championship
March – Annually

Golden Shears is New Zealand’s premier shearing and wool-handling competition; held at the Trust House Recreation Centre, on the first weekend in March every Year.

 

The three-day event encompasses novice, junior, intermediate, senior and open shearing competitions along with junior, senior and open wool handling events and wool pressing competitions, as well as the coveted triathlon award.

 

Up to 400 competitors, National & International, will converge on Masterton for the three days of competition.

 

The Golden Shears is great family viewing with atmosphere action, and excitement.

 

Balloons over Wairarapa
Easter weekend – Annually

Experience the magic of the Wairarapa from a hot air balloon! Balloon rides are exclusively available during the Balloons over Wairarapa festival and must be booked in advance as spaces are VERY limited.

 

All events are weather-dependent and may be brought forward, postponed, shifted or cancelled on the day if conditions are not safe for flying.

 

For more information on Masterton and the Wairarapa Region visit Wairarapa NZ

 

Photo Credits: Mawley Holiday Park

 

 

See Member Rewards in Masterton & surrounding areas