Hemi Matenga Memorial Park Scenic Reserve

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Hemi Matenga Memorial Park Scenic Reserve

Introduction

The 330 hectare native forest overlooking Waikanae comprises Hemi Matenga Scenic Reserve, protecting one of the largest remaining areas of kohekohe forest.

The reserve rises steeply from 150 metres to its highest point, Te Au, 514 metres above sea level. The land was originally owned by Hemi Matenga Waipunahau and Wiremu Parata Waipunahau, brothers from a distinguished family of Ngati Toa descent. Hemi Matenga died in 1912.

Location: The reserve overlooks Waikanae.

Getting there: The main entrance to Hemi Matenga Scenic Reserve is at Tui Crescent, where there is a small parking area by a reservoir.
Kakariki Grove provides access beside another reservoir 500 metres south of the Tui Crescent entrance.

A tramping track back down from the summit exits the reserve at Huia Street, about 2 km north of Tui Street.