Castlepoint: fossil reef, cliffs, and lighthouse views
Set on the east coast of the Wairarapa, Castlepoint is one of the Wairarapa region’s most iconic landscapes, with a dramatic mix of fossil reef, tidal lagoon, sandy beach, and steep headlands. It’s around 65 km northeast of Masterton (about one hour’s drive), and feels remote in the best way. The area is popular with walkers, photographers, fishers, and those simply looking to take in the raw beauty of the Wairarapa coastline. A campground makes it easy to stay a while.
Coastal landforms carved by sea and time
Castlepoint Beach is on the northwest side of the point and is a typical Pacific Coast surf beach. It is immediately accessible from the town, and the campground is towards the north end of the beach.
The south side of the point has a sheltered lagoon, protected by a large, million-year-old limestone and reef platform uplifted by tectonic activity. At the south end of the lagoon is Castle Rock / Mātira, a spectacular 162 meter high rock face. The reef forms a natural breakwater that shelters the lagoon and beach, creating calm conditions ideal for paddling and picnics..
At low tide, you can walk onto the reef and investigate the thousands of fossils. Then head towards the Castlepoint Lighthouse on the point, built in 1913 and remaining as one of the last manned lighthouses in New Zealand until automation in 1988. The lighthouse stands 23 metres high and is perched above cliffs that drop steeply to the sea below, making for dramatic viewing in any weather.
Deliverance Cove and Castle Rock / Mātira
One of the best short walks in the Wairarapa is the Deliverance Cove Track — an easy loop that circles the lagoon and beach and dunes before climbing steeply to the lookout on Castle Rock / Mātira. The track from the town is about 1.5 km long and takes 45–60 minutes return, depending on your pace.
The final section to the summit is steep and exposed, but is rewarded with panoramic views up and down the coast. Castle Rock / Mātira is a classic photo spot. It’s best in the early morning when the cliffs glow golden, or in the evening as the light fades over the water. If you don’t like the thought of climbing to the top, even partway up, you have superb views up and down the coast.
A second short and easier track leads from the car park to the lighthouse, with viewing platforms and interpretive panels along the way.
Tangata Whenua and Name Origins
Castlepoint lies within the rohe of Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa, with connections to several local hapū. The Māori name for Castle Rock is Mātira, and the area has long been a site of seasonal occupation, fishing, and gathering. Pā sites were located on defensible high points, including the ridge behind the lagoon.
The European name Castlepoint was given by Captain James Cook in 1770, who noted the rock’s resemblance to the battlements of a castle.
A Laid-Back Coastal Village
Castlepoint township has a store, a seasonal café, and several baches and holiday homes. There’s a public campground near the beach and a boat ramp that’s used by recreational fishers and local boaties. There’s also a surf lifesaving club that patrols the beach in peak summer months.
Fishing is popular from the reef or by boat, with kahawai, moki, and blue cod common in local waters. The annual Castlepoint Horse Races, held on the beach each March, draw visitors from across the region and are a local institution.
How to Get There
From Masterton, take the Castlepoint Road heading northeast. The drive is around 65 km and takes just over an hour. The road is sealed the whole way but includes several winding sections and hill passes, so allow extra time if towing or travelling in poor conditions.
Parking is available near the lagoon on the beach and at the campground, with public toilets and information panels at the entrance to the main walks.
Other striking remote coastal locations in the Wairarapa include Pahaoa, Tora Beaches, White Rock Beach, Whāngaimoana Beach, Pūtangirua Pinnacles and Cape Palliser.
