J.M. Barker (Hapupu) National Historic Reserve Walk
Track category
Walking track
Time:
10 min
Description
One of only two national historic reserves in New Zealand, Hapupu protects Moriori rakau momori (tree carvings).
There is a 10-minute bush walk through part of the reserve. The forest comprises mature kopi forest with a dense understorey of mahoe saplings. Rakau momori have been carved on the trunks of many kopi trees, some of which can be seen on the bush walk. Permission must be obtained in advance if photographs of the tree carvings are to be used for any public or commercial purpose. Contact the Department of Conservation, Chatham Island, for further information.
Getting there
Head north from Waitangi on the North Road, turn right at the signposted turn-off 6 km from Kaingaroa. The reserve is at the end of the road adjacent to the old Hapupu airstrip.