Carterton

About

Carterton was founded in 1857 as housing for workers building the road between Wellington and Masterton. From its working-class origins, the town has since evolved into a hotbed of creative activity, with painters, sculptors, and textile artists producing unique works that are on display in the local galleries - in May they even have their own upcycled fashion awards. One of the highlights is Paua World, where dazzling jewellery, homeware, and other gifts crafted from sustainably-sourced paua (abalone) are on offer. In September, Carterton holds its Daffodil Festival which celebrates both the yellow flowers and the town’s artistic creations.