Discover Castlepoint
Accommodation in Castlepoint
Castlepoint brings together coastal scenery, wildlife, walking tracks and stories passed down through generations. When planning your trip, the approximate travel time, shared use of the beach and local camping rules are just as relevant as the landscape and cultural topics that interest you.
Getting There and Coastal Scenery
The Masterton Castlepoint Road leads directly to Castlepoint; the drive from Masterton takes about an hour. This approximate travel time gives you an idea of how long the journey will take. Castle Rock is 162 metres high; the Castlepoint Reef and tidal lagoon are other distinctive coastal features.
Beach, Reef and Nature
The Castlepoint Scenic Reserve is visited by several species of dolphins and fur seals, and is home to many seabirds. The plant life is also closely tied to the landscape: the Castlepoint Daisy (Brachyglottis compactus) grows only on the crumbly limestone of the reef and Castle Rock.
Vehicles and motorised watercraft share the beach with swimmers and surfers. Sea conditions at the reef are unpredictable; tides and unexpected waves can occur. The advice relates to different conditions: on the beach, it concerns the shared space; at the reef, it concerns unpredictable sea conditions.
Walking Tracks and Surfing
There are several walking tracks in and around the Castlepoint Scenic Reserve, suitable for most ages and fitness levels. For surfing, The Gap in Castlepoint offers good opportunities. If you’re weighing up land-based activities and surfing, the tracks in the reserve and The Gap offer two clearly different options.
Accommodation and Camping
Camping is not permitted in the Castlepoint Scenic Reserve. The Castlepoint Motor Camp at the northern end of the beach is the only place where camping is allowed. The Castlepoint Campground offers a range of sites and cabins with views of the lighthouse. As booking details may change, check them before making plans.
Stories from the Past
According to Māori tradition, Kupe, the great Polynesian navigator, is said to have visited Castlepoint. Ngāti Kahungunu had a settlement at Castlepoint called Rangiwhakaoma. The history of horse racing on the beach also dates back to the late 19th century.
More Culture in Masterton District
In the wider destination of Masterton District, The Wool Shed is located in Masterton. This hands-on local history museum focuses on the history of New Zealand sheep farming and shearing. On display are two authentic old wool sheds that were transported there from local farms, along with equipment for sheep farming, shearing and wool processing. Spinning and weaving demonstrations take place on Wednesday mornings and by appointment. As the programme may change, check the dates before visiting.
The Golden Shears are also part of Masterton District: every March, Masterton hosts this world championship in sheep shearing and wool handling, regarded as the world’s leading event of its kind.
Discover more destinations: Masterton, Whakataki.
Back to the wider travel overview: Masterton District.
