Central Hawke's Bay District: Nature, Trails and Heritage

In Central Hawke's Bay District, travel interests range from forest and coast to trails, heritage and recreational activities. To plan your trip, you can choose destinations based on whether you want to explore landscapes, learn about history or seek out active pursuits. Also take note of specific conditions, such as seasonal attractions, a garden that is open only by appointment, or changing trail conditions.

Forest, Coast and Views

A’Deanes Bush Scenic Reserve is a 38.5-hectare remnant of the original forest of the Ruataniwha Plains. Mataī and kahikatea trees define this forest. Its size and the tree species mentioned make the reserve a clear focus for anyone interested in the original forest landscape.

On the coast, the Te Angiangi Marine Reserve, established in 1997, protects 446 hectares between Aramoana and Blackhead. Visitors can explore rock pools on the extensive tidal platform. They may see octopuses, crayfish, sea anemones and migratory wading birds. Comparing it with the forest reserve highlights two distinct natural themes: original forest on the one hand, and coast, tidal platform and possible wildlife sightings on the other.

Pukeora Lookout above Waipukurau offers panoramic views of the Tukituki River, Waipawa, the surrounding farmland and the Ruahine Ranges. The focus here is not a single animal or plant species, but the expansive view across the river, towns, agricultural landscape and mountain range.

Trails and Heritage

The Tukituki Trail is a network of trails in Central Hawke's Bay for walkers, cyclists, mountain bikers and horse riders. It combines limestone paths on the river stopbanks with road connections between Waipukurau and Waipawa. Motor vehicles are not permitted on the trails. Conditions for use may change after floods or maintenance work, so check the latest conditions before your trip.

The Highway 2 Trail leads to significant Māori and European heritage sites and includes Waipawa and Waipukurau. The smaller townships of Ōtāne and Takapau are off the route. Another option is the Ngā Ara Tipuna Driving Tour, which leads to seven additional sites of cultural and natural significance around Waipukurau and Takapau. The options differ in focus and format: the Tukituki Trail features several activities, the Highway 2 Trail focuses on heritage, and Ngā Ara Tipuna is a driving tour.

Gardens, Museum and Recreation

The garden at Gwavas Garden & Homestead is classified by the NZ Gardens Trust as a Garden of National Significance. Guided house and garden tours are available; the garden is open by appointment only. Contact the operator before your trip to arrange a visit. Ongaonga Museum includes historic buildings and homes, as well as historical documents, photographs, tools and machinery. Those interested in regional history can find both buildings and collection items in a variety of forms here.

Russell Park in Waipukurau offers a range of recreational facilities: a colourful playground, a seasonal splash pad, a skate park, scooter and cycling tracks, heated indoor pools and sports facilities on the Tukituki River. The splash pad is seasonal; as individual facilities may change, check their current availability before your trip.

Market and Local Produce

The Ōtāne Market takes place on Sundays from 9 am to 1 pm. It offers local produce, plants, crafts and vinyl records. This gives the market a different focus from the nature and heritage destinations: here, you can plan around the goods on offer and the market schedule. As market details may change, check the latest schedule before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Hatuma, Ruahine Forest Park, Hastings District and Wairoa District.

For the broader travel overview: Hawkes Bay.