Tucked just minutes from the heart of Martinborough village, Brackenridge Country Retreat & Spa offers more than a place to stay—it’s your gateway to everything the Wairarapa has to offer. Whether you’re here for a weekend escape, a wine-tasting adventure, or a romantic getaway under the stars, you’ll find the perfect mix of comfort, tranquillity, and connection to the region.
Long before vineyards lined the hills, the Wairarapa Valley was home to Māori who settled along rivers and wetlands, drawn by the land’s abundance and spiritual significance. The name Wairarapa—meaning “glistening waters”—reflects that deep connection to place.
European settlement followed in the 19th century. In the 1880s, prominent landowner and entrepreneur John Martin established the town that now bears his name. Drawing inspiration from his grand tour of Europe and beyond, he laid out the village streets in a Union Jack pattern radiating from a central square. Many of the streets still bear the names of places he visited on his travels—Naples, Venice, Dublin, and New York among them—giving the town a worldly charm in a distinctly rural setting.
Today, that unique layout remains, along with beautifully preserved colonial buildings now home to boutique shops, wine bars and cafés, and easily navigated on foot or by bike.
From your base at Brackenridge, the best of the region is at your fingertips. With over 20 cellar doors within easy reach, you can easily spend your day sampling world-class Pinot Noir and local fare.
Take a short drive and discover:
Return to Brackenridge to indulge in a luxurious treatment at the day spa, take a swim in the heated indoor pool, or spend a peaceful evening on your veranda.
Martinborough is part of the Wairarapa International Dark Sky Reserve, and our rural location gives you front-row access to the night sky. At Brackenridge, we support this special status with low-impact lighting—just step outside after dark and look up.
We also honour the Tiaki Promise, a national initiative to care for people, place and culture. From our native plantings to composting systems, sheep for grass control, and support for local suppliers, our commitment to sustainability is woven into every stay.
At Brackenridge, you’ll find all the comforts of home—and a few extra touches of indulgence.
Whether you’re here for wine, wilderness, weddings, or a well-earned rest, Martinborough has something for everyone—and Brackenridge is the perfect place to begin.