Fensham Reserve

Fensham Reserve sits 5 minutes northwest of Carterton in the Wairarapa region. This 48-hectare Forest and Bird reserve features a remnant kahikatea swamp forest with magnificent podocarps that are up to 700 years old. The well-maintained circuit track takes approximately one hour, featuring boardwalks through wetlands and a hilltop lookout with panoramic views of the valley.

The reserve offers diverse filming environments from dense native bush to open wetlands. Abundant birdlife includes tūī, fantail, grey warbler, kererū, and kingfisher. The 3-hectare wetland area is home to the nationally vulnerable brown mudfish. Many trees are clearly labelled, adding educational value.

Two vehicle entrances provide access: the main entrance off Cobden Road leads directly to the circuit track, while the upper entrance off Belvedere Road reaches the picnic area via a gravel drive. Good parking is available at both entrances. The tracks feature boardwalks over wet areas and steps through the forest, suitable for crew and carried equipment on foot.