Hemi Matenga Memorial Park Scenic Reserve

Introduction

The 330 hectare native forest overlooking Waikanae comprises Hemi Matenga Scenic Reserve, protecting one of the largest remaining areas of kohekohe forest.

Visitors in Hemi Matenga Scenic Reserve. Photo: Jeremy Rolfe.
Visitors in Hemi Matenga
Scenic Reserve

The reserve rises steeply from 150 metres to its highest point, Te Au, 514 metres above sea level.

The land was originally owned by Hemi Matenga Waipunahau and Wiremu Parata Waipunahau, brothers from a distinguished family of Ngati Toa descent. Hemi Matenga died in 1912.


Location

The reserve overlooks Waikanae.

Getting there

The main entrance to Hemi Matenga Scenic Reserve is at Tui Crescent, where there is a small parking area by a reservoir.

Kakariki Grove provides access beside another reservoir 500 metres south of the Tui Crescent entrance.

A tramping track back down from the summit exits the reserve at Huia Street, about 2 km north of Tui Street.

Plan and prepare

Please remember

Visitors should stay on the formed tracks at all times. Please keep dogs on a leash.

Please remove your rubbish. Recycle paper, glass, cans and plastic.

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Maps

New Zealand topographic maps are available from DOC Visitor Centres

Learn more

Important notices about DOC managed areas in the Wellington region

Wellington NZ website

Footnotes - Wellington Hawke's Bay Conservancy newsletter

Stop the spread of didymo
Check, Clean, Dry all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.

Safety

Follow the Outdoor Safety Code:
1. Plan your trip
2. Tell someone
3. Be aware of the weather
4. Know your limits
5. Take sufficient supplies

Contacts

Wellington Visitor Centre
Phone: +64 4 384 7770
Address: 18 Manners Street
Wellington
Email: wellingtonvc@doc.govt.nz
Full office details
Kapiti Wellington Area Office
Phone: +64 4 472 5821
Email: wellingtonvc@doc.govt.nz
Full office details
Conservation for prosperity. Tiakina te taiao, kia puawai