Gordon Park Scenic Reserve
Introduction
Although this is a relatively small reserve at 14.5 hectares, it is a precious sample of a lowland forest type which was once common in the area.
Features
Man and child walking in Gordon Park
Scenic Reserve.
The reserve features a flat and well formed track. It offers a bush experience that walks you through species such as matai, totara, titoki, tawa, kowhai and kahikatea. There are epiphytes (perching plants), vines, mosses and lichens. The area is also home to an interesting array of birds.
It is also home to many rare plants species including Mazus novaezeelandiae and Gratiola concinna.
Threats
Pest weeds are controlled by the Friends of Gordon Park and DOC who meet at the reserve twice a month. The reserve is often subject to unlawful dumping of garden waste and rubbish, so the reserve is monitored regularly.
Location
The reserve is situated close to Whanganui City near its north-eastern boundary.
Getting there
Gordon Park is located on the corner of Kaimatira Road and No.3 Line to the east of State Highway 4. Hop over the stile on Kaimatira Road or drive into the car park a little further down to the start of this short walk.
Activities
Bird and wildlife watching
Child/family friendly activities
Bird and wildlife watching
Birds such as fantail, tui, bellbird, kereru, grey warblers and also shining cuckoo in season have made this area their permanent home, along with visitors such as pukeko, fernbird, bittern and grey duck also frequenting the area.
Child/family friendly activities
From the car park, this wheelchair and buggy accessible short walk is a great introduction to bushwalking. It was designed with children and young families in mind.
Plan and prepare
Access to the reserve is over a stile or from the car park entrance. From that point the track is an easy short walk for the whole family. Wheelchair and buggy access from the car park only.
Dogs, fires and camping are not permitted in this reserve.
Before you go into the outdoors, tell someone your plans and leave a date to raise the alarm if you haven't returned. To do this, use the New Zealand Outdoors Intentions process on the AdventureSmart website. It is endorsed by New Zealand's search and rescue agencies and provides three simple options to tell someone you trust the details about your trip.
Location map
Related links