The reserve is distinguished by its massed nikau palms, which give a tropical feel. Here and there, dense glades of young matai, kahikatea, cedar and tanekaha indicate that the forest is recovering after past disturbance.
Large carnivorous Powelliphanta snails live in the reserve. Shags, paradise ducks, Canada geese and grey ducks all find shelter there among the raupo (bullrushes) and reeds.
