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Central Hawke's Bay, Ongaonga
1 km
30 minutes
10 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you find yourself driving through the golden, rolling pastoral lands of Central Hawke’s Bay, it is easy to imagine that the landscape has always looked this way. But tucked away near the historic village of Ongaonga lies a secret—a lush, green time capsule that whispers stories of what New Zealand looked like centuries ago. A'Deanes Bush Walk is more than just a quick leg-stretch; it is a profound encounter with some of the last remaining original forest of the Ruataniwha Plains.
At just 1 kilometre long, this easy loop track is the definition of "short but sweet." It is a place where the air suddenly cools, the light filters through a dense emerald canopy, and the modern world feels miles away. Whether you are a local looking for a peaceful Sunday stroll, a tourist exploring the "off-the-beaten-path" treasures of the Hawke's Bay, or a family with little explorers in tow, A'Deanes Bush offers an immersive nature experience that punches far above its weight.
Stepping onto the A'Deanes Bush Walk feels like crossing a threshold into another era. The transition from the surrounding farmland into the 38.5-hectare reserve is immediate and striking. One moment you are in the bright Hawke's Bay sunshine, and the next, you are enveloped by the deep, earthy scent of damp leaf litter and the towering presence of ancient trees.
The terrain here is remarkably flat, with a negligible elevation gain of only 10 metres. This makes it an absolute breeze for hikers of all fitness levels. If you have young children who are just finding their "bush legs," this is the perfect training ground. The path is well-maintained, featuring a mix of metalled (gravel) sections and sturdy wooden boardwalks that bridge the lower-lying, muddier areas. Even after a bit of typical New Zealand rainfall, you can generally enjoy a comfortable journey without needing heavy-duty hiking boots—though a pair of sturdy trainers is always a good idea.
As you begin the loop, the trail meanders through a dense understory of ferns and native shrubs. The canopy above is dominated by massive mataī and kahikatea (white pine), species that have stood guard over this land for hundreds of years. The walk is a sensory delight; listen for the rhythmic whoosh-whoosh of a kererū (New Zealand pigeon) flying overhead or the cheeky chatter of a pīwakawaka (fantail) as it follows you along the path, hoping you’ll stir up a few delicious insects with your footsteps.
Parking is available at the reserve entrance off Makaretu Road, approximately 1 km past Sherwood School. A longdrop toilet and water facilities are also located near the car park.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Chalinolobus tuberculatus
New Zealand's only native land mammal, the long-tailed bat, is critically endangered and can sometimes be spotted at dusk in A'Deanes Bush.
Best time: Spring-Autumn (Dusk/Night)
Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae
Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
2.5km away
A local pub in Ongaonga, offering a classic country pub experience.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A'Deanes Bush is a fantastic "all-seasons" destination, with each time of year offering a different perspective:
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.
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.
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.
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.
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
New Zealand wood pigeon, a large native bird with iridescent green and purple plumage. Important for seed dispersal of native trees.
Best time: Year-round
Anthornis melanura
Endemic songbird with bell-like calls. Males are olive-green with a purple head sheen; females are browner with a narrow white-yellow stripe across the cheek.
Best time: Year-round
Petroica longipes
Friendly forest bird that often approaches walkers. Found in native bush reserves across the North Island.
Best time: Year-round
Zosterops lateralis
Small bird with distinctive white eye-ring. Commonly seen in flocks, feeding on insects, fruit, and nectar.
Best time: Year-round
2.7km away
A general store in Ongaonga that includes a cafe, perfect for a quick coffee or snack.