Our branch currently has over 110 members. We cover the area from Takiri (Central Taranaki) to Patea (South Taranaki).
If you would like to know more about the South Taranaki Branch please contact branch chairman Dave Digby or secretary Carol Digby. See contact details below.
Collier/Dickson Block
This 396 hectare reserve is home to plentiful birdlife including tui, Tomtit, Fantail, Wood pigeon and friendly Robins, as well as totara, rimu, tawa, kahikatea, broadleaf and many other native trees. The reserve is protected under a QE11 covenant, and the bush is very healthy, thanks to our three dedicated volunteers who work to control pests in the area, plant native species and maintain tracks and facilities.
The bush area borders the beautiful Lake Rotorangi and there is about 8kms of walking tracks leading to various natural features such as a waterfall and lake. The track also offers spectacular views of Mt Egmont.
The reserve is located at the end of Aorere Road, which leads off Rawhitiroa Road from the town of Eltham. As there is not direct public access, it is best to contact our branch and we would be more than happy to either take you ourselves or make arrangements for you to cross through the private farmland on Collier Station.
There is also a cosy self-contained hut, surrounded by kowhai, kahikatea and flax. The hut sleeps seven, and groups are welcome stay for $10.00, (per person, per night), which will go to the South Taranaki branch to help with expenses in this area. BYO food, sleeping bag etc. Cutlery, pots, a gas fridge, and gas cooking hobs are provided. For inquiries and bookings please contact Dave or Carol Digby.
The Hardwich-Smith Block is home to many fern species. Credit: Jackie Whitehead
Hardwick-Smith Block
The Hardwich-Smith Block is home to many fern species
This is a 452 hectare area of private land, owned by Tim & Sue Hardwick Smith. The block contains a pine plantation and a bush area of totara, ponga and ferns. The bush is mainly scrub, providing habitats for kiwi, which are often heard in the area.
Our branch volunteers work on the block doing pest control, native planting and track and facility maintenance.
The block contains a cosy self-contained hut which offers great views of great views of Mt Egmont and Tongariro National Park. The hut sleeps seven, and groups are welcome stay for $10.00, (per person, per night), which will go to the South Taranaki branch to help with expenses in the area.
BYO food, sleeping bag etc. Cutlery, pots, a gas fridge, gas cooking hobs are provided. As this is private land, access is by prior arrangement with a South Taranaki branch member only. For inquiries and bookings please contact Dave or Carol Digby.
Connell Reserve
This is a small Council-owned park reserve on Clifford Road in the town of Eltham. Our branch mows the lawns, plants donated trees and holds working bees to maintain the area. The park has a picnic table but no toilet. Self contained camper vans are welcome to park here over night. Our branch has installed a donation box which helps cover costs of the lawnmower.
