The Pallis

Cape Palliser, Wellington-Wairarapa

The Pallis is just under two hours from Wellington on Cape Palliser in the South Wairarapa region. The remote location, privacy and incredible outlook are second to none.

A stay at The Pallis is glamping with an extra measure of 'camping' thrown in - perfectly in keeping with the rustic, Kiwi baches that sprinkle this rugged coastline.

The two converted 20-foot containers, with their large glass windows and restful interiors, are wonderful spaces to relax in. One container is the bedroom - with a full wall-sized window taking in the million-dollar ocean views. The other container is the living space - with comfortable seating and a wood burner for cosy winter evenings.

The kitchen facilities are contained in a semi-outdoor lean-to from the living room. It's rustic and simple, but you'll find everything you need for prepping and cooking meals. An outdoor camping-style shower is set just off the back of the kitchen.

The Pallis is an escape from the bustle of everyday life. The elevated position captures mesmerising views over Palliser Bay and Cook Strait to the Kaikoura mountain range beyond. With the historic Cape Palliser Lighthouse nearby, it's a great region to explore. Watch the changing light on the ocean and spot the dolphins that are regularly seen in the area... You may even be lucky enough to see a passing whale.

The panoramic landscape and sea views make The Pallis an ideal escape to watch the night sky come alive under the magical Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve.

EATING AND DRINKING

The Pallis is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook meals using the facilities provided in your kitchen. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

If you'd like a break from cooking - the Waimeha Bar and Grill, 8 minutes drive away is a fresh seafood restaurant, accommodating the meat lover as well. Bookings are recommended. The Ngawi fishing village also has two excellent food trucks, serving good coffees, milkshakes and great takeaway food. These mainly operate during the summer however a drive to the village allows you to see who and if they are open at other times.

For pub fare, The Lake Ferry Hotel 25 minutes drive away, is set right beside Lake Onoke with stunning views out to sea. ‘The Land Girl’ cafe has fantastic coffee, food and shopping in Pirinoa Village.

Pirinoa Country Store is just a 20-minute drive away (or on the way to The Pallis) and offers a well-stocked selection of groceries for stocking up. There is also a petrol station, postal service, hardware supplies, fresh bait for fishing, and wines, beers, and spirits. Pirinoa General Store is also your go-to local first aid centre.

THINGS TO DO

A stay at The Pallis is all about the view, the view, the view. Soak up that gorgeous seascape and watch the changing light across the water. Whether calm or stormy, it's a spectacular experience.

For things to do on the property, there is a short but scenic walk up the gully behind the site. When conditions permit, cosy up in front of the campfire and watch the night sky come alive in the heart of the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve.

If you're keen to get out and about, there is plenty to do on Cape Palliser. Drive to the Cape Pallister lighthouse, exploring the Ngawi fishing village on the way. The fishing boats and their matching bulldozers are iconic - and a must-see. Stop in at the famous fur seal colony, which is the North Island's largest.

If you're keen on some exercise, walk to the stunning Putangirua Pinnacles or further for excellent views of Palliser Bay and Lake Onoke. The Pinnacles are where one of the Lord of the Rings scenes were filmed. There is also a well-kept secret walk referred to by the people in the know as the 'Stone Wall'. This is accessed by driving as far as the road allows past the lighthouse. Park out of the way from the gate access, and walk following the stone wall as far as it goes and you are rewarded by a swim in a clear waterfall.

For those with the gear, there is fantastic fishing, diving and surfing all along the coast.

TESTIMONIALS

“ The location and view were absolutely stunning. The Pallis is an amazing setup with the containers, and the peace and tranquility were second to none. An absolute paradise amidst an amazing part of the NZ coastline. ”

Carl Trompert- 2024-11-12

20 / 20

“ Unbelievable spot if you’re wanting a place to get away from the reality of life, feel so secluded and feel like you can really reset yourself here. ”

Bailey Tyler- 2026-03-09

1 / 20

“ Amazing views, sunsets and stars. Also interesting to stay off grid for a few days. When the weather turned stormy, it was pretty dramatic to see and hear the power of the elements, but comfortingly dry and solid inside! ”

Meg Abdy- 2026-03-04

2 / 20

“ An absolutely magical weekend and wonderful experience. Spectacular views and a great way to celebrate our wedding anniversary. Wines with a gorgeous sunset in front of the fire. Really remote and private, hard not to feel like the only ones on the planet. Close to the lighthouse, trails and the seal colony. Will definitely be back. ”

Samara Preston- 2026-01-28

3 / 20

“ The accommodation and location combination were perfect! ”

Hayden Crossman- 2026-01-11

4 / 20

“ My stay at The Pallis was absolutely perfect. Amazing off grid getaway to reset and recharge. Instructions for getting set up and communications from the host were super helpful and easy to understand. ”

Emerson Hemingway- 2025-11-13

5 / 20

“ The Pallis is a beautiful spot, the perfect place to pause life and just enjoy nature and peace. ”

Cushla Herath- 2025-09-26

6 / 20

“ Very private setting with a spectacular view! ”

Rebecca Maulder- 2025-09-22

7 / 20

“ This was an amazing getaway with the views, just outstanding!!l ”

Anna Watson-Taylor- 2025-08-05

8 / 20

“ Absolutely loved our off grid stay at The Pallis and will be sure to be back. Lance, who was looking after the property, was an absolute legend, being very helpful and letting us in on the local dive knowledge. Highly recommend The Pallis for a place to disconnect from the world and to connect with each other's company. Mauri ora. ”

Blain Collinge- 2025-06-09

9 / 20

“ Amazing views, nothing like it on a good day! ”

Jasmine Wellington- 2025-04-28

10 / 20

“ We absolutely loved our stay and felt relaxed as soon as we arrived. We would definitely recommend this property to stay at and enjoy. ”

Raewyn Stephens- 2025-04-24

11 / 20

“ Really relaxed accommodation in an amazing location. ”

Jo Mcinerney- 2025-04-15

12 / 20

“ Stunning location, will be back. ”

Kerry Dykstra- 2025-04-08

13 / 20

“ ”

- 2025-03-24

14 / 20

“ Awesome stay, very private and secluded for how close to the road it is. Beautiful view of the sunset and South Island. Highly recommend. ”

Nick Shanks- 2025-03-01

15 / 20

“ Clean and very quiet. Absolutely a place to recharge. ”

Russell Turner- 2025-02-20

16 / 20

“ Amazing spot with gorgeous views. We had a lovely two-night stay, with a trip to the lighthouse and a visit with the seals a must! ”

Michael Clulow- 2025-01-30

17 / 20

“ The most beautiful spot with majestic views and total serenity. A lovely place to appreciate nature and re-energise. Absolutely loved our stay and would thoroughly recommend. Thank you. ”

Catherine Perry- 2024-11-24

18 / 20

“ The setting is beautiful, peaceful and secluded. Very comfortable, with a lovely bed and linen. ”

Rae Frear- 2024-11-13

19 / 20

Carl Trompert- 2024-11-12

20 / 20

“ Unbelievable spot if you’re wanting a place to get away from the reality of life, feel so secluded and feel like you can really reset yourself here. ”

Bailey Tyler- 2026-03-09

1 / 20

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The Pallis

GETTING THERE

FAQS

RATES AND EXTRAS

BOOKING TERMS

EATING AND DRINKING

THINGS TO DO

TESTIMONIALS

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