Fensham Reserve in Carterton

Walking time

1 hr

Length

2.6km

Uses

Walking/Running

Type

Single track

Walking difficulty

Easiest: Short walk

Profile

120m climb

120m descent

164m highest point

Dogs

A family stands under a large memorial tree in Fensham Reserve in Wairarapa.

About the trail

Containing a stunning remnant kahikatea swamp forest, Fensham Reserve is one of the best places for a bush walk near Carterton. The 48-hectare native bush reserve is only a few minutes’ drive from Carterton and offers all-weather, well-maintained trails that are great for families and joggers.

The trails take you through a variety of terrain, including wetland boardwalks and native bush. Some of the podocarp trees you’ll encounter are believed to be between 400 and 700 years old. Head up to the top of a hill for views of rolling farmland.

Make sure to pack a picnic for one of the resting spots along the way. There is also a picnic table near the second entrance off Upper Belvedere Road.

A family looks at the view from Fensham Reserve in Wairarapa.

Getting there

Fensham Reserve is 3km west of Carterton and can be accessed from two entrances:

Take State Highway 2 from the square in Carterton, turn west into Belvedere Road and drive 2km to Cobden Road. Turn right, and the Reserve is located by the junction of Cobden and Haringa Roads.
The other entrance can be accessed another kilometre up Belvedere Road.

A family runs along the path of Fensham Reserve in Wairarapa.

Know before you go

Get ready using Plan My Walk for track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews and a packing list.
Parking is available at both Cobden Road & Upper Belvedere Road entrances.
Picnic tables and toilets are near the second entrance off Belvedere Road.
No pets are allowed due to regular pest control operations.

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Three people walking away from camera on a gravel path amongst grasses and flaxes, with trees in the background

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A child and adult in the bush looking into the trees and pointing.

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