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About Wairarapa, New Zealand 

The cool-climate wine region of the Wairarapa lies just over an hour drive or scenic train journey north of New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington. With a population less than 40,000, it is a peaceful retreat from city life. Many nearby ‘Wellingtonians’ perceive it as a trendy country weekend escape.

The name Wairarapa means 'Glistening Waters, and is said to have been applied by an early Māori explorer, Huanui, who saw the rivers and lake from the mountains to the west. The picturesque rural area has an ‘off the beaten track’ charm, with three major forest parks and a wild stretch of coastline. Centrally located on the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail, Wairarapa is one of New Zealand’s top food and wine destinations offering some of the country’s premium wines and everything from country cooking to fine cuisine in the many cafes, vineyards and restaurants.

The area offers many attractions and activities for a get away from it all. Highlights of any visit to the region may include meeting a kiwi and some of New Zealand's rarest birdlife at Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre, taking a guided day tour of the internationally acclaimed vineyards, Martinborough wine village and olive groves or learning more about the area at the numerous historic museums including the National Museum of Sheep & Shearing. The Wairarapa is a true escape and an essential stopover for travellers and holidaymakers in the  North Island.

 34092586_front_160 Copthorne Hotel and Resort Solway Park Wairarapa

Copthorne Hotel and Resort Solway Park is the largest accommodation provider in the Wairarapa. Centrally located to Wairarapa’s internationally acclaimed vineyards, the hotel is nestled in landscaped parklands with its own native bush walks on the outskirts of Wairarapa's largest town, Masterton. It boasts luxurious accommodation, three restaurants and bars, two swimming pools, two spa pools, 10-bay golf driving range, tennis, squash, petanque, beach volleyball, fitness centre, plus expansive meeting facilities. The resort is Qualmark rated 4-Star Plus with Enviro-Gold accreditation.