Activities at the Westhaven reserves
Whether the tide is in or out, the estuary has a natural beauty which, with the combination of coastal forest and tidal channels, offers a unique experience of breathtaking scenery. The uninterrupted sequence from the Burnett range in the North-west Nelson Forest Park through coastal forest to the sea, is extremely rare in New Zealand.
Banded rail
Bird and wildlife watching
For keen bird watchers many waders and sea birds can be seen on the inlet and flying over farmland. In and around the forest are numerous other birds including pigeon, welcome swallow, bellbird and tui. Some, such as kingfisher and banded rail, find their food in the inlet, but live in forest or wetland, demonstrating the importance of the remaining natural fringe around the inlet.
Tracks & walks