Carter Scenic Reserve

A small area of swamp forest suggests how the Wairarapa plains once were, though reducing water levels have resulted in the death of some of the kahikatea. There is a short loop track taking about 20 minutes. A side trip leads to the Ruamahunga River.

"The Department of Conservation is working hard to turn the tide....... An ambitious programme put in place over recent years is now showing encouraging results."

Note: Some visitors suggest the entry to the reserve is difficult to find. The reserve is 12km south-east of Carterton on Gladstone Rd, Wairarapa. From Carterton follow Park Road to the end, turn left into Carters Line and right into Gladstone Rd. The reserve is signposted approximately 3km along Gladsone Road.