Edendale/Kamahi Scenic Reserve Loop Track

Loop

Beyond the trees, the forest floor is a masterpiece of its own. It is a lush, verdant carpet of native ferns and mosses that seem to glow in the dappled sunlight. For the photographers out there, the macro opportunities are endless. From the delicate unfurling of a koru (silver fern frond) to the intricate patterns of lichen on a fallen log, there is beauty in every square centimetre.

However, the magic isn’t just inside the bush. One of the highlights is actually found right at the start (or end) of your journey. The trailhead is located in an open area on the hillside that provides a stunning panoramic vista. From here, you can look out across the sprawling Mataura Valley. On a clear day, the views stretch all the way toward the rugged, mysterious peaks of the Catlins in the distance. It’s a fantastic spot for a family photo or a quiet moment to appreciate the Southland landscape before you plunge back into the greenery.

Getting There

Finding the Edendale/Kamahi Scenic Reserve Loop Track is straightforward, making it a highly accessible "hidden gem." If you are driving on State Highway 1, head towards the township of Edendale. From the centre of town, you’ll head inland towards the hills. The reserve is well-signposted locally.

The trailhead features a dedicated parking area, which is essentially a cleared, open space set into the woods. It is large enough to accommodate several cars, though it rarely gets "crowded" in the way more famous Great Walks do. This sense of seclusion is part of its charm. Because the parking is right at the entrance to the bush, you can be under the canopy within seconds of stepping out of your vehicle.

Wildlife Spotting

For bird watchers, this reserve is a little slice of paradise. Because of the abundance of podocarp trees—which provide high-energy fruits and seeds—the birdlife here is prolific.

The most common companion on your walk will be the pīwakawaka (fantail). These energetic little birds are famously curious and will often flit along the path just a few metres away from you, feasting on the insects stirred up by your footsteps. You’ll also hear the melodic, flute-like calls of the tūī and the bellbird (korimako) echoing through the canopy.

In the autumn and early winter, keep a close watch on the miro trees. Their pinkish-purple fruits are a favourite of the kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon). Seeing a heavy kererū swooping through the trees with its distinctive "whoosh-whoosh" wingbeat is always a highlight. If you are lucky and quiet, you might even spot an elusive kākā, our large forest parrot, or the occasional weka scurrying through the undergrowth. For the truly eagle-eyed, the rare mohua (yellowhead) has been known to frequent the area, though they remain a rare treat.

Pro-tip: The best time for bird spotting is early morning or late afternoon when the "dawn chorus" or evening activity is at its peak. Bring a pair of binoculars if you have them, as many of the honey-eaters prefer the high branches of the rimu and kahikatea.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Edendale/Kamahi Scenic Reserve Loop Track is truly a year-round destination, with each season offering a different perspective on the bush:

• Spring: This is when the forest feels most "alive." You’ll see fresh green shoots on the ferns and hear the birds at their most vocal during the breeding season.
• Summer: The thick canopy provides excellent shade, making this a cool, refreshing escape on a hot Southland day.
• Autumn: This is the best time for bird enthusiasts, as the podocarp fruits (like those of the miro) ripen, attracting larger numbers of kererū and kākā.
• Winter: Southland winters can be crisp, but the evergreen nature of the podocarp forest means the reserve stays lush and green. The views across the Mataura Valley are often sharper and clearer in the cold air.

• Footwear: While the track is easy, Southland is known for its rain. The path can get a little muddy in patches, so leave the white sneakers at home and opt for sturdy walking shoes or boots.
• Sun & Bug Protection: Even under the canopy, NZ’s sun can be fierce. Apply sunscreen before you start. It’s also a good idea to carry a little insect repellent, as the damp forest floor can sometimes attract sandflies.
• Water: It’s only a 30-minute walk, but a bottle of water is always recommended, especially if you plan to sit at the viewpoint for a while.
• Dogs: Your four-legged friends are more than welcome here, but please keep them on a leash at all times to protect the ground-dwelling birds like the weka.

Local & Regional Context

The Kamahi Scenic Reserve is more than just a nice place for a walk; it is a vital remnant of the ecological history of Southland. Before European settlement and the rise of the dairy industry that Edendale is famous for today, much of this region was covered in dense, swampy lowland forest. As the land was cleared for agriculture, these pockets of bush became increasingly rare and precious.

The name "Kamahi" refers to the kāmahi tree, which is often a pioneer species in New Zealand forests, helping to establish the environment where the larger podocarps can eventually take over. This reserve serves as a living museum, showing us what the Southland plains looked like a thousand years ago.

From a cultural perspective, the Mataura Valley was a significant area for Māori, providing a rich source of food and resources. The forest would have been a "pantry" for local iwi, providing birds, berries, and timber. Today, the reserve is a testament to conservation efforts, ensuring that future generations can still experience the "old" New Zealand.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your loop and filled your lungs with fresh forest air, you’ll likely be looking for a place to refuel. Fortunately, you don’t have to go far.

Just 1.7km down the road is the Pioneer Tavern & Edendale Motels. This is a classic, recently renovated local tavern that perfectly captures Southland hospitality. It features a great bistro menu with hearty meals that are exactly what you need after a hike. If the weather is nice, their garden bar is a fantastic spot to sit back with a cold drink and reflect on your walk. It’s family-friendly, dog-friendly (in the outdoor areas), and offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like a local, even if you’re just passing through.

Whether you're looking for a quick nature fix or a peaceful morning out with the family, the Edendale/Kamahi Scenic Reserve Loop Track is a delightful Southland treasure that proves you don't need to hike for days to find true New Zealand magic.