Web Only: Weekender in Carterton

Everything you need to know about the pretty Wairarapa town of Carterton, which plays host to Richmond GArden.

Words by Yvonne van Dongen  Photography by Hamish Trounson

The small rural town in the Wairarapa is known as New Zealand’s Daffodil Capital and has proudly held the Daffodil Festival every September since the 1920s. But there’s plenty to occupy visitors in other seasons whether they’re outdoor types or prefer fossicking in antique shops and cafés. Plus the town has some surprising themed attractions.

GO

Located on SH2 between Masterton in the north and Greytown in the south.

Take the train from Wellington or coach from Masterton/Martinborough/Featherston – all run return trips daily.

Destination Wairarapa, phone (06) 378 8451, www.wairarapa.nz.com

PLAY

In spring take the shuttle bus to Middlerun where you can pick bunches of daffodils for a gold-coin donation. Or travel with Tranzit Coachlines to the Richmond and Assisi gardens on a Wairarapa Garden Gourmet Escape, www.tranzit.co.nz

Ballooning New Zealand Ltd does one-hour flights with a café champagne breakfast. Contact ballooningnz@infogen.net.nz

Stonehenge Aotearoa, a full-scale adaptation of Stonehenge complete with open-sky observatory, is open from September to June. Bookings essential. 15 Ahiaruhe Road, Carterton, phone (06) 377 1600, www.stonehenge-aotearoa.com

Paua World offers a free factory tour where you can view paua, pink mussel and mother-of-pearl shells being crafted and purchase gifts at factory prices. 54 Kent Street, www.pauaworld.co.nz

Enjoy walks and bird watching in the Waiohine Gorge which also has an impressive swing bridge.

EAT

Lunch at Wild Oats Café and Deli, 127 High Street North.

Drinks at Lounge Wine and Tapas Bar, High Street North. Good atmosphere, regular music. www.loungewineandtapas.co.nz

Dine next door at Istanbul restaurant. Varied menu but no alcohol which is why the Lounge is handily placed.

SLEEP

Carrington Cottages – two cottages set in the grounds of the private historic residence Carrington House. www.carringtoncottages.co.nz

Hokimai holiday home – five-bedroomed luxury Victorian villa. Superb for a large group, www.hokimai.co.nz

Westwood Country House – large homestead in Greytown set in landscaped gardens including a huge formal Italian-inspired herb garden and a heated swimming pool. Breakfast included. westwood.kemp@xtra.co.nz