Ngawi: A Unique Fishing Village
Ngawi, located in South Wairarapa, offers a rare glimpse into one of New Zealand's few remaining pure fishing villages. This unique destination is found along Cape Palliser Road, a route that leads to the iconic lighthouse at the road's end. Visiting Ngawi provides a special opportunity to experience a traditional fishing community.
A Glimpse of Village Life
In Ngawi, you'll find boats neatly lined up on trailers along the beach, ready to be launched into the sea by vintage tractors. This sight captures the essence of the village's fishing heritage. For a taste of local flavour, a caravan on-site serves coffee and fish and chips, offering a cosy spot to warm up, especially on a rainy day.
How to Get There
To reach Ngawi from Martinborough, head south to Palliser Bay on Lake Ferry Road, then east on Cape Palliser Road. This scenic route will take you through the village as you head towards Cape Palliser, its lighthouse and seal colony.
Along the way, you can also visit Lake Ferry, Whāngaimoana Beach and the Pūtangirua Pinnacles.











