Tōtara Reserve has an established and popular network of walking trails, ranging from gentle short walks amongst the giant tōtara trees on the Nature Trail around the campground, to the largely flat two-hour riverside Pettifar Track loop, through to the more challenging three-hour Fern Walk loop that offers wide views across the river valley.

The track network encompasses a variety of quite distinct vegetation, ecology and landscape outlooks. Maintaining these biodiverse landscapes as individual spaces, and communicating their key points of interest, will encourage people to further explore the variety of experiences on offer within the wider regional park.

We've had to permanently close the Gilchrist Loop due to extensive damage caused by Cyclone Gabrielle.

Long term aspirations

  • The interconnected track network is maintained following Department of Conservation guidelines, catering for all abilities.
  • Forest impacts are minimised and forest experience is optimised with environmental and cultural education signage.
  • The 10km track network has been reduced by 15% due to closure of the Gilchrist Track. Lower sections of the track were washed away during Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023.
  • What standard should tracks be maintained to?
  • What information do you want to encounter on the tracks and trails of Tōtara Reserve?
  • Should the remaining tracks be maintained just as they are, or new ones created?

Have your say!