Masterton, New Zealand is a picturesque town located in the Wairarapa region of the North Island. With a population of just over 20,000, Masterton is the largest town in the region and is a great place to explore. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or just want to take in the stunning scenery, Masterton has something for everyone. Here are the top 20 places to see in Masterton, New Zealand.
1. Queen Elizabeth Park: Queen Elizabeth Park is a great place to explore and enjoy the outdoors. With a variety of walking tracks, picnic spots, and a stunning lake, this park is the perfect spot to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
2. Mount Holdsworth: Mount Holdsworth is a popular spot for hikers and mountain bikers. This mountain offers stunning views of the Wairarapa and is the perfect spot for a day of adventure.
3. Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre: Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre is a great place to learn about New Zealand’s native wildlife. Here you can see kiwi birds, tuatara, and other native species in their natural habitat.
4. Henley Lake: Henley Lake is a beautiful spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. This lake is home to a variety of waterfowl and is a great place to relax and take in the stunning scenery.
5. Aratoi Museum: Aratoi Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Masterton and the Wairarapa region. This museum has a variety of exhibitions and hosts a number of special events throughout the year.
6. Wairarapa Balloon Festival: The Wairarapa Balloon Festival is an annual event that takes place in Masterton. This event features a variety of hot air balloons, live music, and other activities.
7. Solway Showgrounds: The Solway Showgrounds are home to a variety of events throughout the year, including the Wairarapa A&P Show and the Masterton A&P Show.
8. Makoura Lodge: Makoura Lodge is a great spot for a romantic getaway. This lodge offers stunning views of the Wairarapa and is a great place to relax and unwind.
9. Gladstone Vineyard: Gladstone Vineyard is a great spot to sample some of the region’s best wines. This vineyard has a variety of award-winning wines and offers tours and tastings.
10. Pukaha Mount Bruce: Pukaha Mount Bruce is a great spot to take in the stunning scenery of the Wairarapa. This mountain offers a variety of walking tracks and is a great spot for a day of exploration.
11. Queen Elizabeth Park Golf Course: Queen Elizabeth Park Golf Course is a great spot to hit the links. This 18-hole course offers stunning views of the Wairarapa and is a great place to spend a day on the green.
12. Waipoua Forest: Waipoua Forest is a great spot to explore the native flora and fauna of New Zealand. This forest is home to a variety of native species, including the giant kauri tree.
13. Pukaha Mount Bruce Historic Reserve: Pukaha Mount Bruce Historic Reserve is a great spot to learn about the history of the Wairarapa region. This reserve is home to a variety of historic sites and is a great place to explore.
14. Queen Elizabeth Park Nature Reserve: Queen Elizabeth Park Nature Reserve is a great spot to explore the native flora and fauna of the Wairarapa region. This reserve is home to a variety of native species, including the endangered kiwi bird.
15. Castlepoint Lighthouse: Castlepoint Lighthouse is a great spot to take in the stunning views of the Wairarapa. This lighthouse is one of the oldest in New Zealand and is a great spot for a day of exploration.
16. Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre: Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre is a great spot to learn about the native wildlife of New Zealand. This centre offers a variety of interactive exhibits and is a great place to explore.
17. Pukaha Mount Bruce Scenic Reserve: Pukaha Mount Bruce Scenic Reserve is a great spot to take in the stunning views of the Wairarapa. This reserve offers a variety of walking tracks and is a great spot for a day of exploration.
18. Castlepoint Beach: Castlepoint Beach is a great spot to take in the stunning views of the Wairarapa. This beach is a great spot for swimming, surfing, and other beach activities.
19. Gladstone Vineyards: Gladstone Vineyards is a great spot to sample some of the region’s best wines. This vineyard has a variety of award-winning wines and offers tours and tastings.
20. Wairarapa Railway: The Wairarapa Railway is a great spot to take in the stunning views of the Wairarapa. This railway offers a variety of scenic routes and is a great spot for a day of exploration.