Carterton railway station is one of only three, original main line stations in the North Island which are still in daily use. Repairs have been made to its interior and exterior and it has been repainted in its original colours. There is a future project to create a working steam museum on the adjacent rail yard site and one or two local buildings of special significance have been moved onto the site and are awaiting restoration. Carterton District Council has also approved plans to restore the area of Carrington Park which fronts onto High Street and the historic band rotunda to their former Victorian elegance, with landscaping and plantings of ornamental trees. As well as hosting market days and craft fairs throughout the year, Carrington Park is the home to the thriving athletic and other sports clubs.
Visitors are always welcome at the two bowls clubs in town.
Just off the main road north is the Paua Shell Factory, where visitors can take a guided tour to watch shell jewellery being made and buy the finished product in the gift shop. The showground hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year, including several equestrian competitions and, in early January, the National Model Aircraft Championships. Carterton Golf Club is just past the showgrounds along Chester Road and is an 18 hole, A grade course where green fee players are always welcomed. Handy to all Wairarapa attractions. Walk to restaurants, bars etc Information freely available .