A'Deanes Bush Walk

Loop

The trail eventually draws you toward the gentle murmur of the Tukipo River. The track follows the riverbank for a portion of the loop, offering glimpses of the clear water through the foliage. It’s a peaceful spot to pause, breathe in the fresh river air, and appreciate the stillness. Because the loop is so short—taking most people about 30 minutes at a leisurely pace—there is no rush. It’s the kind of place where you should stop often, look up, and simply soak in the prehistoric atmosphere.

Highlights & Must-See Features

While the entire forest is a highlight in its own right, there is one particular resident that steals the show: the magnificent giant tōtara.

Standing proudly at approximately 34 metres tall, this ancient titan is a true survivor. To truly appreciate its scale, you have to stand at its base. It is estimated that it would take at least seven adults joining hands to fully encircle the massive, craggy trunk of this tree. It is a humbling experience to touch the bark of a living thing that has witnessed centuries of change. For photographers, this is the ultimate "hero shot" of the trail, though you’ll need a wide-angle lens (or a very long retreat) to capture its full height!

Another standout feature is the Tukipo River. In the height of a Hawke's Bay summer, the river provides a refreshing focal point for the walk. While the river level can vary, the banks offer a lovely spot to sit and enjoy a quiet moment. If the weather has been warm and the flow is right, a quick paddle in the shallows is a fantastic way to cool off before finishing the loop.

Finally, keep an eye out for the "knees" of the kahikatea trees. These ancient giants are New Zealand’s tallest native trees, and in swampy areas, they sometimes develop specialized root structures. The forest floor here is a complex tapestry of life, from the smallest mosses to the grandest canopy dwellers, making every metre of the 1km track worth investigating.

Getting There

Finding A'Deanes Bush Walk is part of the adventure, taking you through some of the most scenic backroads of Central Hawke's Bay.

From the historic township of Ongaonga, head west on Bridge Street, which becomes Makaretu Road. You will pass the Sherwood School on your way. Approximately 1 kilometre past the school, you will see the entrance to the reserve on your left.

There is a dedicated parking area at the reserve entrance. While it isn't a massive car park, it is usually more than sufficient for the number of visitors this hidden gem receives. Near the car park, you will find essential facilities including a longdrop toilet and water facilities. It is always recommended to bring your own drinking water, but it’s handy to have a backup on-site.

Wildlife Spotting

For birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, A'Deanes Bush is a vibrant sanctuary. Because this is a significant remnant of original forest, it supports a higher density of birdlife than the surrounding modified landscapes.

• Tūī: You’ll hear them before you see them. Listen for their complex melodies—a mix of beautiful whistles and slightly strange clicks and groans. They are common year-round and particularly active when the native trees are in flower.
• Kererū (NZ Pigeon): Look for these large, iridescent green and white birds perched heavily on branches or performing their spectacular diving displays.
• Pīwakawaka (Fantail): These friendly little birds are almost guaranteed to join you on your walk, flitting around the undergrowth.
• North Island Robin (Toutouwai): If you stand still for a moment, a robin might hop down to the forest floor near your feet. They are inquisitive and brave, often looking for insects stirred up by hikers.
• Long-tailed Bat (Pekapeka-tou-roa): This is the ultimate wildlife prize. These tiny, "threatened" mammals are one of New Zealand’s only native land mammals. They are rare and elusive, but they are known to live in the hollows of the old trees in A'Deanes Bush.

Tip for Bat Spotting: If you want a chance to see the pekapeka, you’ll need to visit at dusk during the warmer months (Spring through Autumn). Stand in a clearing or near the forest edge and look for small, fast-moving shadows that look a bit like large butterflies flitting against the fading light.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

A'Deanes Bush is a fantastic "all-seasons" destination, with each time of year offering a different perspective:

• Spring: The forest is at its most vocal. The bird chorus is loud, and the fresh growth on the ferns creates a vibrant, neon-green palette.
• Summer: The deep shade of the canopy provides a welcome escape from the Hawke's Bay heat. The Tukipo River is at its most inviting for a quick dip or a paddle.
• Autumn: The light becomes golden and soft, filtering through the trees in beautiful shafts. The air is crisp, making the walk feel particularly invigorating.
• Winter: The bush takes on a moody, temperate rainforest feel. The mosses and lichens are lush and bright, and the smell of the damp earth is intoxicating.

• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or trainers are fine. If it has been raining heavily, boots are better for the occasional muddy patch.
• Insect Repellent: Being near a river and in dense bush, you might encounter a few sandflies or mosquitoes, especially in summer.
• Water & Snacks: Even though it’s a short walk, it’s always nice to have a bottle of water, especially if you plan to linger by the river.
• Camera: You’ll definitely want to snap a photo of the giant tōtara!

Best Time to Start: For the best bird activity, early morning is hard to beat. However, for that magical "golden hour" light and a chance to spot bats, an evening stroll is highly recommended.

Local & Regional Context

To walk through A'Deanes Bush is to walk through a living museum. Before European settlement, the Ruataniwha Plains were covered in vast forests of tōtara, mataī, and kahikatea. As the region was developed for agriculture in the 19th and 20th centuries, almost all of this forest was cleared.

A'Deanes Bush (and the nearby Monckton Scenic Reserve) represents a tiny, precious fraction of that original ecosystem. It was gifted to the Crown by the A’Deane family, who had the foresight to protect this patch of bush when the surrounding land was being broken in for farming.

The area is also close to Ongaonga, a village that feels frozen in time. Known for its beautifully preserved colonial architecture, Ongaonga was a major hub during the 1870s. Combining a walk in the bush with a tour of the historic village gives you a full picture of the region's natural and colonial heritage.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your loop and filled your lungs with forest air, you’ll likely be looking for a spot to refuel. Luckily, you are just a few minutes away from some classic Central Hawke's Bay hospitality.

• Onga Onga General Store Ltd. (2.7km away): This is your go-to for a post-walk caffeine hit. It’s a charming general store that includes a cafe serving up great coffee and those classic Kiwi cabinet treats. It’s the perfect place to sit and scroll through your photos from the walk.
• Sandford Arms Tavern (2.5km away): If you’ve worked up a more significant appetite or fancy a cold pint, the Sandford Arms is a must-visit. It is a quintessential New Zealand country pub—friendly, unpretentious, and full of local character. It’s a great spot to chat with the locals and soak in the rural atmosphere of Ongaonga.

A'Deanes Bush Walk is a reminder that you don't need to hike for days to find true wilderness. Sometimes, the most profound nature experiences are found in the smallest pockets of the landscape, waiting patiently for you to step off the main road and discover them.

2.7km away

A general store in Ongaonga that includes a cafe, perfect for a quick coffee or snack.