From sweeping rugged coastlines to the valleys and majestic heights of the high country, Kawakawa Station has it all.

Deep in the South Wairarapa lies Kawakawa Station, one of the region’s oldest sheep and beef stations. Home to the famous Cape Palliser Lighthouse, Kawakawa Station is only 40 minutes from the bustling wine village of Martinborough, yet it feels a world away. The awe-inspiring location sets the scene for an unforgettable three-day coastal station walk.

More than just a walk, Kawakawa Station offers a bucket-list experience that seamlessly blends rugged high country, sweeping coastline, and ancient native forest with unique comforts and astronomical wonders.

The landscape is diverse and contrasting, with the trail guiding you from the foot of the Aorangi Forest Park to bush-clad high country, down to braided river streams, and finally out to the stunning South Wairarapa coast; where on a clear day visitors can see out to the South Island, across the Cook Strait and out to Kaikōura and beyond.

The three-day walk offers a uniquely different experience each day. While day one starts out as an easy stroll, it peaks with ‘The Ant’ 616 m above sea level, before it’s downhill to the comforts of Jakeb’s Cabin where your evening meal awaits. Day two is all about the bush as the track takes you along an undulating path, showcasing mature native bush; while day three gets you up close and personal with crystal-clear braided streams.

A fully catered culinary experience, the food is delicious country-style cooking using locally sourced, fresh ingredients. Guests are treated to tasty and nutritious meals for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert, alongside ample home-baked goodies. The only requirement for guests is to bring their own drinks and a few pre-dinner nibbles, ‘but not too many as there will be plenty of food!’

Over the three nights, guests are treated to a night by the ocean, a night nestled in the hills and one alongside a stream in the bush for a truly immersive experience. The rustic (but not too rustic), accommodation provides all the comforts of home, hot showers and most importantly comfortable beds!

A distinctive attribute of the Kawakawa Station Walk is its unique position within the world’s 21st Dark Sky Reserve. Guests spend their nights immersed in this pristine environment, experiencing zero light pollution and the brightest of stars. To elevate this night sky experience, special stargazing binoculars are provided at each accommodation – adding an ethereal dimension to an already captivating journey.

Filled with discovery and adventure, Kawakawa Station Walk takes you deep into the history and depths of one of Aotearoa’s oldest farms, offering visitors the chance to connect with a bygone era of farming alongside the raw, untamed beauty of the South Wairarapa.