“What if a city held a secret?” That is Wai Manawa / Le Roys Bush. It is a scenic reserve on Auckland’s North Shore. It protects a wide variety of fauna and flora.
Let’s explore the history. Edward Le Roy purchased part of the upper valley in 1918. He was a keen gardener and plant collector. Edward Le Roy introduced indigenous species from around New Zealand. Following his death in 1947, the Forest and Bird Society purchased the land. They were aided by government, local council contributions, and public subscriptions.
Today a community volunteer group manages the reserve. You can find more information at www.leroysbush.org.nz.
Le Roys Bush features kauri, tanekaha, and taraire. Totara and many other ferns also thrive here. Imagine towering trees all around us.
Our journey through Le Roys Bush begins. The main walking track is accessible from Onewa Road. The track takes about an hour to walk at your leisure. We will descend steeply. We’ll follow a stream down through the bush. Then we continue on a level walk alongside the wetland. Finally, we will arrive at Little Shoal Bay. We can enjoy views of Waitemata Harbour and the Auckland Harbour Bridge.
As we walk, listen to native birdlife.
Along the way, we’ll pass a beautiful waterfall. It is a picturesque scene. The track forks into two paths at the valley floor. The right path leads up to the cafes of Hinemoa Street. The left path continues past wetlands. It ends at Little Shoal Bay.
Starting your day at Little Shoal Bay is a great idea. Enjoy the seaside and views of the Auckland Harbour Bridge. If you want to swim, check the water conditions first. Swimming is only permitted during high tide.
Dog owners can enjoy an off-leash exercise area. But keep your furry friends on a leash in Le Roys Bush. Also, dogs must be on a leash on the sports field.
We’ll cross Council Terrace to enter Le Roys Bush Reserve. The path is a mix of gravel tracks and boardwalks. Some areas are narrow. Keep an eye out for steps.
The bushwalk emerges at 251 Hinemoa Street. Across the street is the Birkenhead Library and Civic Centre building. Admire the sea views from its balcony.
Spend some time at the local shops and cafes in Birkenhead village. Don’t miss the Kaimataara ō Wai Manawa viewing platform. It is located on Birkenhead Avenue. From there are panoramic views of Le Roys Bush Reserve. You can also see Auckland city and Rangitoto Island.
Remember to stick to the open tracks. There is still some kauri dieback work being done. The track from Le Roys Terrace remains closed for now. Protect our kauri trees by staying on the designated paths.
Le Roys Bush offers a refreshing escape. It is a place where nature and history intertwine. It provides a unique experience in Auckland.