New Zealand's first planned inland town, Greytown has the most complete main street of original Victorian wooden architecture in New Zealand. It is the oldest town in the Wairarapa and was for a long time considered to be the region's capital. Governor Grey bought land from the Maori to establish Greytown in 1853 for the Small Farms Association. The town is named after him. The recent removal of overhead powerlines in the main street, and the addition of very elegant victorian style street lamps has allowed the beauty of the historic architecture to be fully appreciated.
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Greytown is loved for its mature trees (Arbor day was first celebrated in New Zealand here in 1890), its friendly village atmosphere, excellent services including education facilities from kindergarten and primary, through to secondary, deli-cafes, restaurants and its fascinating collection of craft, gift and antique shops.
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Situated on fertile river plains, Greytown enjoys beautiful gardens and orchards with an abundance of seasonal fruits and vegetables. Garden lovers are always keen to visit Greytown and few people go home without shopping for local produce, often enjoying the chance to pick their own. |
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In 1856 Samuel Oates carried a three year old Eucalyptus tree from Wellington in a wheelbarrow and planted it on Main Street Greytown. Today this magnificent tree is still healthy and strong. |
