The Carterton community is today remembering those who died in the area's biggest disaster.

Four years ago to the day, 11 people were killed when a hot air balloon crashed near the Wairarapa town.

Mayor John Booth says the community is marking the anniversary with a small service at the site of the crash, and the unveiling of a plaque bearing the names of those who died.

He says the disaster is something the locals still talk about regularly.

"We contacted the families and explained to them what we'd like to do and asked for their feedback and they've been very positive about it."