Waianakarua Scenic Reserve carpark to Kahikatea Lodge Hut

Starting from the carpark, cross the paddock into the Scenic Reserve. After climbing over the stile, turn left and follow the markers into the mānuka/coprosma scrub.

The route drops through kānuka forest and into broadleaf/podocarp forest before crossing the creek and climbing steeply up a grassy clearing to the kahikatea lodge hut.

Getting to Waianakarua Scenic Reserve carpark

Turn onto Mt Misery Road, 4 km south of Herbert on SH1. Continue for 15 km, through Glencoe Run to the carpark. Glencoe Run is a working farm and this section of road is suitable for 4WD vehicles only. Follow the orange markers.

Kahikatea Route is signposted at the carpark.

Logging trucks and farm vehicles use this road frequently. Keep to the left, drive with your headlights on, and drive to the conditions.

Challenging conditions with rapidly changing weather

The Waianakarua Scenic Reserve is exposed and weather can change rapidly.
Creeks can rise rapidly due to heavy or prolonged rain. Make a safe decision and be prepared to turn back.

Road Access

The road to the car park is recommended for four-wheel drives only and passes through a privately owned working farm.

Forestry trucks operate on the first part of Mount Misery Road. Take due care when driving on the gravel road and expect traffic.

Dogs

Dogs are allowed in this reserve with a hunting permit. Access to the route is over private land, you must have dogs contained in your vehicle while driving and dogs must be on a lead when walking to the reserve from the car park.

Fires prohibited

Fires could rapidly destroy this special place and put you, and others, at risk. Do not light fires.