The 4.5 hectare reserve contains a remnant of superb kahikatea (white pine) forest that once occupied the fringes of the extensive wetland in the area. The reserve has huge kahikatea, dwarfing the tawa and pukatea that provide most of the remaining tree cover. Nikau palms are also an attraction. Hanging vines, shrubs and ferns proliferate under the tree canopy, providing habitat for native birds including tui, kereru (native pigeons), fantails, bellbirds, silver-eyes, grey warblers and ruru (morepork).

A 250 metre  wheelchair accessible walkway has been built into the heart of the reserve to allow people with disabilities to enjoy the forest. The walkway incorporates a nature trail, where the many tree and plant species present are identified.

White Pine Bush Scenic Reserve is on White Pine Bush Road (SH2), between Awakeri and Tāneatua, 20 km south of Whakatāne.