Exploring Ngā Manu Reserve
Ngā Manu Reserve, located on Ngā Manu Reserve Road in the northeast of Waikanae, is a 14-hectare sanctuary dedicated to the preservation of New Zealand's native flora and fauna. Established as a charitable trust in the 1970s, it is one of the largest remaining areas of coastal lowland swamp forest on the Kāpiti Coast, and a unique opportunity to engage with NZ native nature.
A Family-Friendly Experience
Upon arrival, Ngā Manu Reserve may initially seem like just a charming spot for a family outing. The main lagoon area features ducks and swans, surrounded by expansive grassy fields. Walk-in enclosures house rare native birds, tuatara, and native skinks, providing an interactive experience. However, the true allure of the reserve reveals itself as you explore the interconnected bush and island trails.
Discovering the Trails
Venture beyond the grassy areas to find the picturesque wetlands and forest walk. The trails are adorned with trees draped in kiekie and other climbers, alongside areas replanted with diverse native species. The main forest loop showcases mature trees, and a viewing tower offers panoramic views of the reserve. Children will delight in the small metal huts scattered along the paths.
Conservation Projects
Ngā Manu Reserve is notable for its conservation initiatives. One highlight is the native mistletoe project, where marked mistletoe plants thrive on various shrubs. In New Zealand forests, possums have severely impacted mistletoe populations, making these accessible examples particularly valuable.
Another intriguing project is the cultivation of te puia o te reinga, or wae wae atua, known as "flowers of the underworld" or "legs of the gods". This parasitic plant primarily grows underground, with flowers emerging in early Autumn. Its nectar is a favourite of the pekapeka-tou-poto (short-tailed bat), a native species. Unfortunately, introduced mammals like pigs have devastated this plant in the wild.
Exploring the Islands
The reserve's small islands are additional opportunities to observe rare native plants and a diverse collection of ferns, all located in one area.
Getting to Ngā Manu Reserve
To visit Ngā Manu Reserve from Central Wellington, take State Highway 1 - the motorway - to Waikanae. Head south from the Te Maona Road offramp to Park Road, then follow this east to Ngarara Road. Take Ngarara Road north to the intersection with Nga Manu Reserve Road, then turn east towards the reserve.
Other places to visit on the Kāpiti Coast include Hemi Matenga Reserve, the Waikanae River Track and Waikanae Estuary, Paraparaumu Beach and Kāpiti Island.
