Starts at 2 Old North Road, Orewa, Auckland
This peaceful bushwalk proves there's more to Ōrewa than its legendary beach!
Walk through Alice Eaves Scenic Reserve, a 16ha remnant of coastal kauri-broadleaf forest.
Start at the entrance on Old North Road. There are only a few car parks here, so you may need to park in Ōrewa and walk.
The loop path is a combination of the short walking tracks marked on the map at the reserve entrance. The path is mainly gravel and boardwalk, with plenty of steps. It's a relatively short walk, and energetic kids will love it.
Follow the wooden signs to the kauri lookout. The lookout gives you a close-up view of the spectacular kauri trees (some up to 50m tall) and other species in the reserve.
As well as kauri, the forest features kahikatea, karaka, kōwhai, mataī, pūriri, rewarewa, supplejack, taraire and large numbers of nīkau palms.
The old hollow kauri tree is approximately 800 years old, and has withstood storms, lightning strike and fire.
Seating along the track provides the opportunity to pause and enjoy the birdsong. As you walk, look out for kererū, tūī and even frogs.
Walk back to the starting point, along the Nukumea Stream.
If you want to keep walking, several unmarked tracks extend into the western reserve area. These can become muddy and are best suited to confident walkers and navigators.
Public toilets and additional car parking are available at nearby Arundel Reserve, at the northern end of Ōrewa Beach.
