Location: Northeastern slopes of Tawa.
How to get there: Junction of Collins Avenue and Woodman Drive.
Entrance: Woodman Drive
Brief description: Wilf Mexted Reserve contains a remnant of the original forest that covered Tawa before the arrival of Europeans.
The dominant tree species in the reserve are tawa and kohekohe, which form the forest canopy. Other species include kahikatea, miro, rewarewa and pukatea.
Parking: Woodman Drive
Accessibility: The tracks are well-formed and easy, but some uphill walking is required. There are several seats, including one with views across Tawa to Colonial Knob.
Dogs: Dogs must be kept on a leash.
Mountain biking: Not permitted.
History: This beautiful reserve was gifted in 1939 by Wilf Mexted, a member of one of Tawa’s longest established families. He was a great lover of trees and recognised the significance of retaining what was left of the area’s original forest for future generations.
Friends group: Friends of Tawa Bush Reserves
Visit map