Colonial Knob Scenic Reserve

Introduction

Colonial Knob Scenic Reserve and the adjacent Porirua Scenic Reserve protect the most significant area of native forest left in the Tawa–Porirua Basin.

The landscape is steep and undulating, rising to Colonial Knob, 468 metres above sea level. Colonial Knob is one of several visible remnants of a peneplain — an eroded land mass that existed 30 – 40 million years ago. Earthquakes have since raised the peneplain, and it has eroded to form these hills.

Features

Reservoir in Colonial Knob
Scenic Reserve

In the late 19th century two reservoirs were built in Colonial Knob Scenic Reserve to supply Porirua Hospital, but became redundant when the hospital was connected to the Porirua City water supply.

The view from the summit of Colonial Knob extends from the Kaikoura Range in the south to Mt Taranaki in the north-west. The islands of Mana and Kapiti are clearly seen offshore, and the drowned river valleys that make up Porirua Harbour are a prominent feature of the landscape. This is the only drowned river valley system in the Wellington region.

Activities

Historic sites

Short walks lead through native bush to old reservoirs.

The Colonial Knob walking track is steep in places but can be completed by people of most ages and fitness levels. The top section is exposed to strong winds—carry warm clothing; take food and drink.

Views from the summit of Colonial Knob extend to Mt Taranaki in the north to the Kaikoura Range in the south.

Toilets by Elsdon Youth Camp are available for public use.

Tracks and walks

Colonial Knob

Climb to the summit of this 468 metre peak and on a clear day you can see from the Kaikoura Range in the south to Mt Taranaki in the north-west.

Plan and prepare

Please remember

Colonial Knob Walking Track passes through private farmland in places. Please keep to the marked route across farmland.

back to top