“How much do you know about giants?” I ask. Today we explore Kauri Glen Reserve a lush escape into Auckland’s natural history. It is named after the towering kauri trees.
Kauri Glen Reserve was established in 1907. Cecil Eady Bush Reserve was established later. This happened when further subdivision occurred. These reserves are contiguous. They are linked together by good walking trails. The trails run from Kauri Glen Road by Northcote College. They continue through to Tui Glen Road and Raymond Terrace at the top and Lake Road at the bottom.
A feature is the newly opened Treetop Bridge. It takes you through the forest canopy. It goes over the Waiurutoa Stream and amongst an impressive stand of kauri.
Local volunteers have played a large part in the continued restoration of Kauri Glen Reserve. In 1911, 200 residents petitioned to establish the reserve. Management was initially with the Northcote Borough. The management of this and three other Kauri reserves was placed under a North Shore Scenic Board in the 1950s. The Board had little or no funding. But through the work of volunteers, further tracks were developed. Maintenance was undertaken.
When the North Shore City Council was formed in 1989 the North Shore Scenic Board was absorbed into the new City administration. When the greater Auckland Council was formed, it took over their jurisdiction.
The Kauri Glen Bush Society was incorporated in 2015. The Rotary Club of Northcote suggested it at the suggestion of local volunteers. It has partnerships with the Kaipātiki Local Board and the Council. They participate in projects. They provide community input into the management of the Reserves.
The significance of Kauri Glen Reserve is recognized for the rare vegetation species. Some kauri trees are over 200 years old. In recent years, the Council has played a more active role. It wants to increase the protection of kauri from kauri dieback disease.
The Society was involved in weeding programs. It maintained hygiene stations at the entrances to the reserves. This work has been reduced by the kauri dieback concerns. Many of the tracks have been closed. New hygiene stations have been upgraded. The Council and Local Board have realigned some tracks. They avoid passing near kauri roots.
The main route links two neighborhood catchments. It is the latest project. The Society and volunteers can access more of the reserves. They help with weed and pest control. The Society has prepared draft interpretation signage. It will be installed pending the Council’s approval.
Entering Kauri Glen Reserve at the Kauri Glen Road entrance you follow the track down to the left onto the Treetop Bridge. It floats among the kauri trees. It gives you a great view down into the valley.
The upper part of the reserve has smooth low gradient tracks. They are suitable for wheelchair or mobility impaired users. From the bridge you can venture further to reach Tui Glen Road or Raymond Terrace.
If you head down to the right at the entrance you find yourself amongst the rest of the reserve. Make sure you stop at the viewing platform. Carrying on further you reach the Gladstone Avenue entrance. Following on further you cross Woodside Avenue. You walk beside the Onepoto Stream and onto Lake Road.
Remember to take only pictures and leave only footprints when visiting Kauri Glen Reserve. Enjoy the peacefulness of this unique place.