Castlepoint

Old-fashioned seaside adventure

Remember those hot summer days in childhood visiting the coast? Soft sand, a warm lagoon, a reef with whirling seabirds, hidden caves and rock pools.

Relive them at Castlepoint – an hour's drive east of Masterton in the Wairarapa.

You need to get up early to revel in the pink dawn glow sweeping across the Castlepoint Lighthouse, before strolling barefoot along the sandy tidal wash.

Find a hollow on the reef and look out for a seal, dolphin or little blue penguin. Watch the fishing boats navigate the tricky 'Gap' into the calm waters of the lagoon to unload their catch on the wharf. You can always charter your own fishing trip or wait for your fresh fish to turn up on the local pub menu.

Take a wind-in-your-hair walk to Castle Rock, through the pines of Castlepoint Scenic Reserve, for the stunning coastal views. On the way, look out for the yellow daisies, unique to this scenic reserve, that bloom mid to late summer.

Whatever the season – the invigorating chill of autumn, the awesome crashing of waves in the winter, the fresh winds of spring, or the warmth of summer – this old-fashioned kiwi beach town remains a great place to visit.