Carterton

The Heart of Wairarapa

Wrapped in the warm charm of nostalgia, Carterton is the home of vintage finds, delicious food and stunning nature. Home to some of the regions most awarded producers, makers and bakers, you must stop and explore!

The gateway to Tararua Forest Park, days in Carterton can be enjoyed exploring tracks and trails, including the popular Waiohine Gorge and Fensham Reserve. Carterton’s Dark Skies offer visitors unique nighttime experiences at Star Safari and Stonehenge Aotearoa.

Each September, Carterton hosts the popular Daffodil Festival bringing thousands of visitors to enjoy a market fair along the main street. A steam train from Wellington, large scale art sale and daffodil picking at Middlerun Farm complete the day’s events. 

• Gladstone: A wine producing area in Wairarapa, home to a collection of vineyards. Most vineyards offer wine tastings at their cellar doors. Check opening hours at www.wairarapanz.com
• Urlar Vineyard: Specialising in handcrafted wines from certified organic grapes lovingly crafted into top quality wine, alongside seasonal produce at their state-of-the-art winery and cellar door. Visit Urlar for lunch and wine tasting.
  Stonehenge Aotearoa: Just a short drive from Carterton township, this modern interpretation of the ancient stone circle is a working astronomical observatory designed for its specific location. It offers a unique blend of stargazing, science, culture, and history.
• Longbush Cottage: Take a self-guided tour of this modern, flower-filled setting. Crafted with care by Luke, and rated 4* Garden of Significance by the New Zealand Gardens Trust (NZGT), the gardens feature a series of unique “garden rooms,” each radiating from the charming 1890s cottage and spanning over a hectare.
• Fensham Reserve: 48-hectare native bush reserve is just a few minutes drive from the town's main street and a popular spot for walkers. Walking tracks lead through kahikatea stands, wetlands, and up to scenic viewpoints.
• Waiohine Gorge: A gateway into the Tararua Forest Park, this dramatic gorge features a swing bridge, swimming holes, and picnic spots - a favourite for summer adventures.
• Aunt Gingers: Fuel your adventures at Aunt Ginger's Kitchen renowned for delicious savoury and sweet food created with attention to detail and flavour!
• Lavender Abbey: Shop year-round at The Big Box of Lavender for stunning lavender products made from their multi-award winning 100% pure lavender oil or catch their pick your own lavender days over summer.

Events and Festivals

• Daffodil Festival (September): A beloved annual tradition where visitors can pick daffodils from Middlerun farm. The event has grown into a full-day celebration with markets filling the main street, entertainment, and community fun.
• Wairarapa Balloon Festival (Autumn): Carterton hosts several events during this colourful festival, with hot air balloons filling the skies in a spectacular display.
• Wairarapa Wines Harvest Festival (February): Held on the banks of the Ruamahanga River, this event brings together local winemakers, food producers, and music in a relaxed rural setting.

The Wairarapa Events Centre is a hub for regional performances, exhibitions, and community gatherings. It also houses the town’s modern library and hosts regular art displays and workshops. 

Carterton District Council, Holloway Street | Ph: 06 379 4030