Lake Ferry
Tranquil Wairarapa coastal escape offering scenic ferry rides to Wellington and wildlife viewing at Cape Palliser.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Lake Ferry
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tranquil Wairarapa coastal escape offering scenic ferry rides to Wellington and wildlife viewing at Cape Palliser.
Book Ferry Tickets Online
Secure your spot on the Lake Ferry to Wellington by booking tickets in advance online.
Cape Palliser Day Trip
Allow a full day for the Cape Palliser trip; it's a long drive but rewarding for wildlife.
Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Ferry to Wellington
Wellington Harbour
Scenic ferry journey connecting Lake Ferry to the capital city, offering coastal views.
Cape Palliser Sea Lions
Cape Palliser
Witness a colony of New Zealand fur seals in their natural habitat. A rewarding, albeit long, day trip.
Wairarapa Coastline
Wairarapa Region
Explore the rugged and beautiful coastline, a highlight for many visitors to the region.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Schedules & Booking
Wairarapa Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Seeking hidden gems in the South Wairarapa
We're heading on a family holiday to Lake Ferry this week. Looking for hidden gems to explore in the region, suitable for kids (5,10,12). Open to short wanders, caves, waterfalls, and anything interesting in general. TIA
Book Ferry Tickets Online
Secure your spot on the Lake Ferry to Wellington by booking tickets in advance online.
Cape Palliser Day Trip
Allow a full day for the Cape Palliser trip; it's a long drive but rewarding for wildlife.
Cape Palliser
Hi, Heading down to Welly from Jafa Land for a couple of days next week. Is the trip to Cape Palliser ( Sea Lion colony) worth the 4 hour drive (there and back) from Wellington? Or can I see something similar somewhere closer? Doing this would pretty much take a whole day…
Has anyone here been to Palliser Bay?
Its the bay on the other side of the Wainui ranges east of welly Harbour. I've just been looking at a map of it and compared to welly Harbour it is absolutely huge! The shore doesnt even start until you're already as north as Upper hutt which is insane. Which makes me wonder:…
Check Ferry Schedules
Ferry times can vary, so always check the latest schedules before you travel.
Paying it forward - Cape Palliser Seals
Hi guys, Just as the post states, I'm paying it forward for other people looking to see seals. Thank you to everyone who gave recommendations - I'm unable to post new comments on my original post as it has been archived. We saw seals at Cape Palliser (May 30th) so recommending…
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ferry Tickets Online
Secure your spot on the Lake Ferry to Wellington by booking tickets in advance online.
Cape Palliser Day Trip
Allow a full day for the Cape Palliser trip; it's a long drive but rewarding for wildlife.
Check Ferry Schedules
Ferry times can vary, so always check the latest schedules before you travel.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the scenic beauty and tranquility of Lake Ferry, often using it as a base for exploring the Wairarapa coast. The ferry to Wellington is noted for its convenience and picturesque views. However, some find the drive to Cape Palliser quite long for a day trip.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to travel between Lake Ferry and Wellington is by ferry. The journey offers scenic views of the coastline. It's advisable to book your Lake Ferry to Wellington tickets in advance, especially during busy periods.
The drive to Cape Palliser from Wellington is approximately 4 hours round trip. While it offers a chance to see sea lions, some travelers find it a significant time commitment for a day trip. Consider if seeing the sea lion colony is a top priority for your visit.
Roads around Lake Ferry and the Wairarapa region are generally well-maintained. However, be prepared for winding roads as you approach coastal areas like Cape Palliser.
Currently, there is no direct ferry service from Featherston to Lake Ferry. Travel between these locations typically involves road transport.
Public transport options directly to Lake Ferry might be limited. It's often easier to reach the area by car or by taking a ferry to Wellington and then arranging onward travel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Lake Ferry, particularly the route to Wellington, can usually be booked online through the ferry operator's website. It's recommended to book in advance to secure your preferred travel time.
Ferry ticket prices can vary based on the season and any promotions. It's best to check the official ferry operator's website for the most up-to-date pricing information for the Lake Ferry to Wellington.
There is no entry fee or ticket required to visit Cape Palliser itself or to see the sea lion colony. Access is generally free, though you'll need to arrange your own transportation.
If you are referring to a 'Lake Ferry Motor Camp,' specific entrance fees would depend on the individual campground's policies. It's advisable to check directly with the campground for their pricing and booking information.
Operating hours for the Lake Ferry can change seasonally and are subject to weather conditions. Always consult the ferry company's official schedule for the most accurate operating times.
🎫 🧠Onsite Experience
Lake Ferry offers a tranquil escape with opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Wairarapa coast. It's a great base for exploring nearby attractions.
Yes, Cape Palliser is known for its colony of New Zealand fur seals (sea lions). They are often seen basking on the rocks, especially during warmer months.
Lake Ferry is a popular spot for holiday parks, offering a relaxed environment for camping and caravanning. It's ideal for those seeking a peaceful getaway by the water.
The ferry journey provides stunning views of the Wellington Harbour entrance and the rugged coastline of the North Island. It's a picturesque way to travel.
The Wairarapa region offers various walking and hiking opportunities. While specific trails directly at Lake Ferry might be limited, nearby areas provide options for exploring the natural landscape.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options directly at Lake Ferry might be limited, often consisting of local cafes or options within holiday parks. For a wider selection, you might need to travel to nearby towns.
Ferries typically offer a cafe or kiosk service where you can purchase snacks, light meals, and beverages during your journey.
Generally, you are allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks onto the ferry for personal consumption.
While there might not be designated picnic areas right at the sea lion colony, there are often scenic spots along the drive to Cape Palliser where you can stop for a picnic.
Wellington is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, offering a vast array of restaurants, cafes, and bars to suit all tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
Lake Ferry offers beautiful coastal landscapes, especially during sunrise and sunset. The tranquil waters and surrounding natural beauty provide excellent subjects for photography.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photographing sea lions at Cape Palliser, creating softer shadows and warmer tones.
Yes, the ferry journey offers fantastic opportunities to photograph the dramatic entrance to Wellington Harbour and the coastal scenery. Keep your camera ready!
The Wairarapa region is popular for landscape photography, capturing its rolling hills, vineyards, and rugged coastline. Wildlife photography at Cape Palliser is also a draw.
Absolutely! The Cape Palliser Lighthouse is an iconic landmark and a popular subject for photographers.








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