The gateway to Lake Wairarapa is Lake Domain. The sweeping panoramic views of the lake are set against the backdrop of the Aorangi and Remutaka ranges. It is renowned for the ferocious weather that whips the water’s surface. 

There’s a spacious recreational area for camping, fishing, kayaking and walking. Threatened plants can be found along the lake edge, including Buchanan’s sedge and Curly sedge - named for its curly tips. Walking along the beach, you’ll find kākahi (freshwater mussels) shells along the shore.

If you walk approximately 600 metres south west from the entrance, you’ll come to a large wetland called Barton’s Lagoon. Keen bird watchers will see many native birds, including the elegant kawau (black shag), cute little tūturiwhatu (banded dotterel), and busy tōrea pango (black oystercatcher) with their bright orange bills.


Getting here

Lake Domain Reserve is an easy 10 minute drive from Featherston. There’s plenty of parking suitable for all vehicle types including large motorhomes.



Who lives here

Kākahi, freshwater mussel

Tuna kūwharuwharu, longfin eel

Tuna hao, shortfin eel

Toitoi, common bully

Īnanga

Kanae raukura, yellow eyed mullet

Kawau, Black Shag

Poaka, Pied stilt

Pohowera, banded dotterel

Kōtuku ngutupapa, royal spoonbill

Matuku, Australasian bittern

Pūtangitangi, Paradise shellduck

Sedgelands

Open water and lagoons

Ephemeral wetlands