Masterton

　　Masterton is situated in New Zealand’s Wellington Region, on the banks of the Ruamahanga River. It is the largest town in the Wairarapa region and serves as its primary shopping and service center. The town is widely known for hosting the annual Golden Shears sheep-shearing competition.

　　If you plan to stay for a night or two, visit Queen Elizabeth Park, established in 1907 and considered the city’s most beautiful park, where you can enjoy scenic garden views. To the east of the city lies Castle Point, a spot for beach surfing, protected swimming areas, and walking trails. About 30 kilometers north of Masterton, the Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre, nestled within an ancient forest, is a predator-free sanctuary dedicated to rescuing many of New Zealand’s endangered bird species. Here, you can watch the hilarious antics of brown kiwis, talk to a takahe, observe giant eels and brown trout, or explore forest trails in search of black-backed gulls, weka birds, and the elusive kōkako.

　　The annual shearing competition held in Masterton every March attracts top shearers from across the country and is hailed as an art form — an astonishing display of skill that never fails to impress.

　　Masterton Reason to Visit: New Zealand’s city famed for its sheep-shearing competition Continent: Oceania Country/Region: New Zealand Province/State: Wellington Region City: Masterton