Castlepoint Scenic Reserve
Located in the Wairarapa region
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Introduction
With its reef, lagoon, lighthouse and Castle Rock, Castlepoint is a spectacular stretch of Wairarapa coastline. An hour from Masterton, the reserve attracts many birds and marine mammals.There are several walks suitable for most age and fitness levels in and around the scenic reserve. All walks begin at the roadend carpark.
Find things to do and places to stay Castlepoint Scenic Reserve
The reef is a popular fishing spot. It can be accessed by following the Lighthouse Walk.
Castlepoint is located on Wairarapa's east coast about 1 hour's drive from Masterton.
Turn right into Te Ore Ore Road on the northern outskirts of Masterton. This road becomes the Masterton Castlepoint Road and leads directly to Castlepoint.
There is a store and tearooms on the beach front. Public toilets are located at the road end and opposite the store.
Safety
- The reef is extremely dangerous and sea conditions are unpredictable. Beware of tidal and rogue waves.
- You may unexpectedly encounter New Zealand fur seals within this reserve. Do not disturb or approach them.
- There may be rockfall near Castle Rock - keep away from cliffs.
Remember
- Camping is not permitted in the reserve. Castlepoint Motorcamp at the northern end of the beach is the only place where camping is permitted.
- Motorcycles and other vehicles are not permitted on the sand dunes.
- Removal of fossils is not permitted.
- Remove your litter when you leave.
- Recycle aluminium, glass, paper, and plastic.
- Keep dogs on a leash.
- Do not disturb nesting birds.
The reef, lagoon, sand dunes, and Castle Rock are all part of Castlepoint Scenic Reserve. As well as protecting outstanding landforms, the reserve is the only location in the world of a rare shrubby daisy. Castlepoint daisy Brachyglottis compactus grows only on the crumbled limestone of the reef and Castle Rock.
Frequently visited by several species of dolphin, as well as fur seals, and occasionally small whale species, the reserve is also home to numerous sea birds. White-fronted terns, red-billed gulls, and black shags inhabit the south end of the reef, and reef herons and black-backed gulls nest on the sheer cliffs of Castle Rock.
Castlepoint was named in 1770 by Captain Cook who was struck by the similarities of Castle Rock to the battlements of a castle.
With its fossil-rich limestone reef and magnificent 162 m high Castle Rock, Castlepoint is one of the most spectacular sites along the Wairarapa coastline. Long stretches of beach and a sheltered lagoon provide opportunity for a variety of waterbased recreational pursuits, and the area has a rich natural history.
Contacts
| Kapiti Wellington Visitor Centre | |
| Phone: | +64 4 384 7770 |
| Email: | wellingtonvc@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
18 - 32 Manners Street Wellington 6011 |
| Postal Address: |
PO Box 10420 The Terrace Wellington 6143 |
| Full office details | |