Elsthorpe: Native Forest and Nearby Kairakau Beach

Elsthorpe Scenic Reserve reveals a particularly tangible aspect of the landscape: its 35 hectares comprise two separate areas of mature lowland native forest. Mataī, kahikatea, tawa and tī kōuka are the dominant trees. The birdlife is also part of the character of this bush area: it is home to tūī, bellbirds and kererū, among other common native birds. For those who want to make native forest and indigenous species the focus of their stay, Elsthorpe offers a clear point of connection.

A short loop through lowland forest

The Loop Track runs through lowland podocarp forest and over a boardwalk bridge. It offers a close-up view of the natural forest in the reserve; the stated duration is 10 to 20 minutes. This makes the loop a short, clearly defined nature outing that can be fitted into the day alongside longer activities. Rather than an extended hike, the focus here is on experiencing the forest at close quarters. The bridge is as much a defining feature of the track as the podocarp forest it passes through.

Access and directions

The track access is off Kairakau Road and passes through a cattle stop. There is a small grassed area with a picnic table there. To reach the reserve, drive from Ōtāne along Elsthorpe Road to Elsthorpe, then turn right onto Kairakau Road; the entrance is on the right. This sequence helps distinguish access to the track from the general approach by road. Also note the difference between the two areas of the reserve mentioned: there is no walking track in the section beside Elsthorpe Road.

When choosing holiday accommodation for a stay in Elsthorpe, you can consider what you want your trip to focus on: the short walk through native forest, the sports and recreation areas, or the landscape around nearby Kairakau Beach. These interests can help you decide on the character of your trip, without implying that the places mentioned form a single route.

Sports grounds, open space and cultural history

Elsthorpe Domain is on Kahuranaki Road, covers 5.4 hectares and is designated as a sports and recreation park and a Recreation Reserve. Its facilities include a cricket ground and a rugby field. Elsthorpe Cemetery is also on Kahuranaki Road. It is classified as a historic reserve, covers 8,093 m² and serves both as a cemetery and as open green space for recreation. Alongside the forest, the destination therefore offers places with a distinctly different character: sports grounds and a cemetery with open green space.

The inclusion of Elsthorpe Scenic Reserve in statutory recognitions forms part of its cultural context. These recognise Heretaunga Tamatea’s special cultural, historical and traditional association with Crown-owned land. Thus, as well as its lowland forest, the reserve has a significant history of connection that is part of understanding the place.

Coastal scenery nearby

Kairakau Beach is nearby. It is characterised by striking cliff formations, a curving shoreline and a dynamic river mouth; there is also a camping ground. This is a different landscape from the reserve’s lowland forest.

More destinations to discover: Porangahau, Wallingford, Eskdale, Raukawa, Waipawa, Waipukurau, Bridge Pa and Urewera National Park.

For the regional travel overview: Hawkes Bay.