Walking Tracks
There is one circuit track on the reserve that takes approximately one hour to walk. From this track you can access the old fence track and the brow track.
The locals
NZ kingfisher, tui, NZ pigeon, morepork, North Island fantail, grey warbler and wax-eye.
Getting there
Belvedere & Cobham Roads, 3kms West of Carterton
This 48-hectare reserve contains a remnant kahikatea swamp forest, as well as important wetlands that are home to our nationally vulnerable mudfish. Kanuka, matai, rimu black beech, titoki and kowhai thrive in this alluvial plains and hill slopes that form much of the reserve.
The reserve’s forest is in great condition, and it has some magnificent podocarps believed to be between 400 and 700 years old. Rising above the primary forest is a further 19 hectares of regenerating forest and shrubland. The reserve also has 3 hectares of wetland, which is being restored to its natural state, and is closed for protection.
Many of the plants, especially in the primary forest, are clearly labelled.
There are two entrances to the reserve. One off Cobden Road leads directly onto the main Circuit Track. The second entrance is further west up a gravel drive off Upper Belvedere Road. This entrance leads directly to the picnic area. Parking is available by both entrances.
The reserve is permanently open to the public but because regular pest control operations are in place, no pets are allowed.
Map
Fensham Map
