Exploring Ivon Wilson Reserve
Ivon Wilson Reserve, a 35-hectare park in Te Anau, is centred around the picturesque Lake Henry. Despite its scale and beauty, it often goes unnoticed due to the many attractions in Fiordland. The park's entrance is also understated, making it easy to miss unless you're specifically looking for it.
Park Features and History
The reserve is located opposite The Punanga Manu o Te Anau / Te Anau Bird Sanctuary, with an ample car park surrounded by deciduous trees. At the car park, you'll find a map and a brief history of Lake Henry. The lake was once part of Lake Te Anau but became separate around 14,000 years ago due to glacial retreat. It was later used as a trout hatchery and is now a designated children's fishery. Children can obtain a free fishing licence from the nearby Department of Conservation (DOC) visitor centre.
Walking and Activities
The lake is encircled by a thicket of bushes and trees, with two main access points easily found from the park's main walkway. This walkway winds through open grasslands, wetlands, and areas with exotic pines and deciduous trees. Young native plants are also being established near the lake.
The park also features a disc golf course, with baskets and start points scattered along the trails. Signage explains the rules of the game - bring your own frisbee.
Plan to spend about an hour exploring the park or enjoying a picnic. The abundance of deciduous trees makes Autumn a particularly colourful time to visit.
Getting to Ivon Wilson Reserve
Ivon Wilson Reserve is at the south end of Te Anau on State Highway 95, the Southern Scenic Route. The park's entrance is subtle, so keep an eye out for it as you drive by. Once there, you'll find ample parking and easy access to the park's features.
Nearby, you can walk the Te Anau Lakefront and do a Kepler Track day walk. Heading south to Manapouri is the shared Lake 2 Lake Trail, which takes you along the Waiau River to Queens Reach, Rainbow Reach and Boulder Reach, then to Lake Manapouri.
