Get Close to Nature at Waiohine Gorge and Lake Wairarapa
Waiohine Gorge is a popular camping and recreation area located in southeastern Tararua Forest Park, near Carterton in the Wairarapa region of New Zealand.
Lake Wairarapa is located near to Featherston, and is the biggest wetland area in the lower North Island.
Waiohine Gorge
Photographer: Ian Trafford
(www.iantraffordphotos.com)
Wairarapa, New Zealand
Waiohine Gorge is a spectacular gorge, carved out by the Waiohine River. The suspension bridge spanning the gorge forms a spectacular gateway to the Tararua Forest Park.
The swing bridge is the largest of its type in New Zealand
Bring a picnic basket and your hiking shoes.
Waiohine Gorge Activities
Activities in the Waiohine Gorge include:
- Walking, tramping
- Abseiling
- Hunting (with permit)
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Swimming
- Rafting, tubing, kayaking
Waiohine Gorge Accommodation
Camping is permitted either in secluded bush areas or open settings at the road-end. Several huts are available for accommodation.
Waiohine Gorge Conservation
Waiohine Gorge and the Tararua Forest Park are managed by the Department of Conservation. Some things to remember include:
- Dogs are permitted on leash
- Take your rubbish away with you
- Fires must be lit only in fireplaces provided
Lake Wairarapa
Wairarapa, New Zealand
Lake Wairarapa is located close to Featherston and is a part of the Wairarapa Moana Wetlands Park—the biggest wetland area in the lower North Island. The Wairarapa Moana Wetlands Park is a place of significant national and international importance.
The diverse habitats within the wetlands attract a wide range of wetland birds and is an excellent place to spy on native and migratory birds.
Tararua Forest Park Walks
Walks in the Tararua Forest Park range from five minutes to multi-day hikes.
The main entrance to the Tararua Forest Park is at Mount Holdsworth.
