Carterton
Carterton is in the heart of the Wairarapa and makes an excellent central base for exploring the whole region. There are some wonderful places to stay and shop here.
Carterton is the arts hub of the Wairarapa, home to authors, illustrators and painters. Visit Heart of Arts, an arts, culture and heritage hub showcasing local artists. Stonehenge Aotearoa is a must-do - it's a working adaptation of the original English Stonehenge.
While you're in town, call into the Carterton Events Centre and see what's on - there are often great shows. If wine's more your thing, explore the nearby Gladstone Wine Region or take a Star Safari to learn about the night sky.
Carterton is a unique blend of culture and ethnicity offering good food from across the world, but be sure to try Finom Kitchen for exquisite cakes and macarons.
If you love tramping or camping, a trip to the scenic Waiohine Gorge or Mount Holdsworth should definitely be on your list, or experience the thrill of rafting white water rapids on the Waiohine River with Wellington Rafting.
Get out into the country and visit nearby Gladstone with it's beautiful country scenery and rolling hills. See what you can get up to in Gladstone at gladstonenz.com.
During summer you can Pick Your Own lavender at Lavender Abbey or shop for a stunning range of lavender products made from their multi-award winning 100% pure lavender oil at their shop The Big Box of Lavender, all year round.
Other things to do in Carterton
Getting here is easy - the train from Wellington stops right in town. Check out a train timetable.