Withiel Thomas Reserve

Can you imagine a time when Auckland was covered in dense, volcanic rock forests? At Withiel Thomas Reserve, a whisper of that ancient landscape remains. This small park, nestled on the edge of Withiel Drive in Epsom, is a time capsule. It preserves a rare fragment of Auckland’s natural history. The reserve was once part of a larger estate belonging to Sir Algernon Withiel Thomas and his wife Emily. Sir Algernon, the first professor of natural history at Auckland University College, clearly appreciated the unique value of this land. In the late 1800s, alongside the existing pocket of rock forest, they cultivated a four-hectare garden. Today, Withiel Thomas Reserve offers a short but rugged loop trail through this unique ecosystem. As you walk, notice the volcanic rock formations. Imagine the intense heat that formed them centuries ago. Keep an eye out for the hardy puriri, pohutukawa, karaka, titoki, kohekohe, and mangaeo trees. These species thrive in this challenging environment. The understory boasts kawakawa and whau, two smaller trees endemic to New Zealand. Their distinctive seed capsules add a touch of magic to the forest floor. The path can be rocky and slippery, especially after rain, so tread carefully. As you explore Withiel Thomas Reserve, remember that you’re walking through a precious relic. Most of Auckland’s rock forest was destroyed by fires started by early Māori settlers, and later by urban development. This little pocket park is a testament to resilience and a vital link to Auckland’s ecological past. Withiel Thomas Reserve, a tiny but significant haven of nature.