VISIT THE RUN

not just a place. An experience.

Pink and cream camellia flowers with dark green leaves in bloom, some buds still closed, in a garden setting. 
Nestled on the Wairarapa fault line, Dead Rabbits Run offers a raw, evolving landscape rather than a manicured garden — a place where nature and creativity meet. Our one-hectare QEII-protected native forest remnant anchors the experience, surrounded by developing pathways, artistic metalwork, and open spaces that invite exploration.
We’re open most days and weekends. Bookings are essential before your arrival.
  • 🌿 Entry: $15 per person (kids 14 and under free)
  • 🐕 Well behaved dogs on a lead are welcome
  • 📍 Featherston, Wairarapa, New Zealand

Part sanctuary, part Storybook. Explore our services.

  • 🥾 Self-Guided Visits — wander at your own pace, maps available.
  • 🌿 Guided Tours — explore with one of our hosts who will share stories about the land, forest, and its future.
  • 🌳 Specialised QEII Bush Walk & Tour — deep dive into the protected forest’s ecology.
  • 📸 Wedding Photography — striking backdrops for memorable moments.
  • 🌹 End-of-Life Ceremonies — a private, respectful setting for farewell gatherings.
  • 🔨 Workshops — occasional creative metalwork workshops (check for dates).

What you’ll experience.

  • 🌳 QEII Protected Native Forest: Guided or self-guided walks through a rare remnant of primary lowland forest, protected under the Queen Elizabeth II National Trust.
  • 🌻 Garden in Progress: Experimental plantings and creative spaces in constant evolution.
  • ⚒️ Artisan Touches: Metalwork sculptures and details dotted around the property.
“Poipoia te kākano kia puāwai.”
— Nurture the seed, and it will bloom.

Wander beyond the run.

There is much more to explore around Featherston and the South Wairarapa. 
  • 🧀 C'est Cheese — Our local artisan deli showcasing all things cheesy.
  • 🚲 Wairarapa Valley Cycleway — A scenic cycling route through the heart of the Wairarapa.
  • 🦆 Wai Wetlands — Explore the unique wetland ecosystem and its diverse wildlife
  •  📚 Book Town — Featherston Booktown is a year-round literature development organisation.
  • 🌈 Featherston Pride Festival — The first Pride Festival in the Wairarapa.
  • 📜 Featherston Heritage Festival — Unearth Featherston's rich past, through a number of exciting events.
  • ✨ Featherston Matariki Festival — Celebrate whānau, reflect, share kai under Featherston's beautiful sky.

For group bookings, special events, or photography sessions,
Please Contact us to discuss your needs.