This 130 acre (53 hectares) native virgin bush reserve is just behind the Rangiwahia Village on the south side. The early settlers left this area of bush untouched, as it was considered an ideal water catchment for the growing village. As a result Rangiwahia now has this beautiful treasure, with many magnificent labeled native specimens, including rimu, miro, matai, maire, kahikatea, rewarewa and several species of Rata.
 
A passionate group of locals have worked hard to restore the access to this gorgeous stand of native bush, as well as marking out the walk. A large orange triangle marks the entrance to the paper road. Smaller orange markers have been used to mark the track itself. It is about 90 minutes medium walk and well worth taking the time to experience what the Rangiwahia district used to be like before settlement. Bird life is plentiful, though not always easy to see. 
There are now 70 trees, including tree ferns and broadleaf varieties labeled along the track. Nearly a year ago, Rangiwahia Community was given a grant by the Fonterra Grass Roots Fund to label native trees within this bush reserve, adding interest to the track . A retired botanist agreed to help us with this project and his knowledge and meticulous attention to detail, enabled an accurate record of the trees. 68 labels were made by Acorn Botanica Labels in Upper Hutt, and were finally put in place October 2014 with the help of our friends, Ruth & Brian Evans. They look fantastic and know it will be provide added interest for all, young & old, who walk the track. We are so grateful to The Fonterra Grass Roots Fund for providing the funding for this project. 
​Outdoor Safety Code:
1. Plan your trip
2. Tell someone
3. Be aware of the weather
4. Know your limits
5. Take sufficient supplies
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For more information visit Adventure Smart

Google Map View

The map shows the proximity of the Reserve to Rangiwahia Village. It is approximately 5 minutes from the Rangiwahia Hall to the carpark, otherwise you can drive up the short access road to the carpark. 

The Access Road

The access road, Mangoira Road, is off Rangiwahia Road. It is a short drive to the car park from where a fence, stile & mailbox will be seen. The mailbox contains a visitors book, so please make comments.

The Reserve

Mangoira Road is no longer used as a public vehicle access. This is a photo of the Reserve as you walk around the perimeter before reaching the signed entry