White Pine Bush Scenic Reserve
Introduction
White Pine Bush is a great place for people of all ages and abilities to visit and experience a piece of New Zealand's remaining coastal forest.
Features
White Pine Bush Scenic Reserve
Kahikatea (White Pine) is the predominant feature in this 19ha of bush while a stand of Nikau palms provide their own unique natural beauty.
A picturesque stream and small waterfall are both visible from the track-sometimes small fish, eels and koura (freshwater crayfish) can be seen.
Please do not touch the giant stinging nettle (ongaonga), especially in summer, when its full of new growth. Despite their fierce reputation, nettles are the exclusive food of the red admiral butterfly.
Location
White Pine Bush is a 20min drive from Napier, travelling north along SH2 towards Wairoa.
Activities
Bird and wildlife watching
Child/family friendly activities
Specialist activities
Bird and wildlife watching
Birdlife is plentiful with tui and kereru (NZ native pigeon) in good numbers.
Child/family friendly activities
Bring a picnic and take time to explore who is at home. Fossick through the leaf litter for an up close and personal experience with such tiny forest critters as spiders, leaf hoppers, and grubs.
Specialist activities: Photography
Take the time to photograph some of New Zealand's iconic trees, including nikau palm and kahikitea (white pine)
Tracks and walks
Short Loop track
The short loop track has a grade and surface suitable for people using wheelchairs. This path, which takes in much that the reserve has to offer, should be completed in an anticlockwise direction. About halfway along the track, there are table and chairs, a perfect spot to sit and listen to the songs of native birds while enjoying a picnic lunch.
Long loop track
Follow the longer loop track to see some large kahikatea and a great view over parts of the reserve.
This section of track is not suitable for people who use wheelchairs or prams.
back to top
Guides and commercial tourism providers