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Elsthorpe, Central Hawke's Bay
800 metres
18 minutes
20 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you are driving through the rolling green hills of Central Hawke’s Bay, it is easy to get lost in the rhythmic beauty of the farmland. But nestled just off the beaten path, near the quiet rural settlement of Elsthorpe, lies a small but mighty treasure: the Elsthorpe Scenic Reserve Loop Track.
While many hikers head straight for the dramatic peaks of the Ruahine Ranges or the coastal cliffs of Cape Kidnappers, this short 800-metre loop offers something entirely different—a chance to step back in time. This is one of the few remaining pockets of original lowland podocarp forest left in the region, a window into what Hawke’s Bay looked like centuries ago. Whether you are a local looking for a Sunday afternoon stroll or a tourist wanting a quick but deep immersion into New Zealand’s native ecology, this track is a "must-stop" on your itinerary.
The Elsthorpe Scenic Reserve Loop Track might only be 0.8km long, but it packs an incredible amount of atmosphere into its twenty-minute duration. As you leave the sunshine of the grassed parking area and step under the canopy, the temperature immediately drops. The air becomes cool, damp, and heavy with the sweet, earthy scent of decaying leaf litter and moss.
The terrain here is remarkably gentle. With only 20 metres of elevation gain, it is essentially flat, making it an ideal choice for families with young children or those who aren't looking for a strenuous workout. The track is well-formed and easy to follow, winding its way through a dense understorey of ferns and shrubs. However, because it is a natural bush track, it can be a bit uneven in places; while it's "easy" for walkers, it isn't quite suited for wheelchairs or buggies due to tree roots and the occasional muddy patch after rain.
Walking this trail feels like entering a natural cathedral. Because the trees are so ancient and the canopy so thick, the light is filtered into soft greens and golds. You’ll find yourself naturally slowing down, not because the path is difficult, but because there is so much to look at. From the intricate patterns of lichens on the bark to the way the sunlight catches the wings of a hovering dragonfly, it’s a sensory experience that rewards those who take their time.
The undisputed stars of the Elsthorpe Scenic Reserve are the "Ancient Giants." As you walk the loop, you will pass beneath towering specimens of kahikatea (white pine), matai (black pine), miro, and tōtara. Some of these trees have stood here for hundreds of years, surviving the widespread land clearing that occurred during the colonial era.
Small grassed area for parking is available off Kairakau Road, near a picnic table at the trailhead.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Gerygone igata
Small greyish songbird also known as Riroriro. Has a distinctive trembling song often heard before seen.
Best time: Year-round
Ninox novaeseelandiae
Native owl also known as Ruru. Named for its distinctive two-note call heard at night.
Best time: Year-round
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Loop
Keep an eye out for the kahikatea, New Zealand’s tallest native tree. In a lowland forest like this, they thrive in the damp soil, their straight trunks reaching upward like pillars. The tōtara, with its thick, stringy bark, is another highlight—these trees were historically prized by Māori for building waka (canoes) and intricate carvings.
Beyond the trees, the "hidden gem" aspect of this reserve is a highlight in itself. Unlike the busy trails near Napier or Hastings, you will often have the Elsthorpe Scenic Reserve Loop Track entirely to yourself. The silence, broken only by the sound of the wind in the high branches and the call of birds, provides a rare sense of peace and solitude. It’s a perfect spot for photography, especially for capturing the "sunburst" effect through the dense foliage.
To find this little slice of paradise, you’ll need to head into the heart of Central Hawke's Bay. The reserve is located on Kairakau Road, about a 35-minute drive south of Havelock North or about 45 minutes from Waipukurau.
The turn-off is well-signposted near the small settlement of Elsthorpe. As you drive along Kairakau Road, look for the small grassed area on the side of the road that serves as the trailhead. There is enough space for a few cars to park safely. You’ll see a picnic table right at the entrance, which is a great landmark to let you know you’ve arrived at the right spot. If you reach the bridge or the Elsthorpe school, you've gone slightly too far!
If you are a bird lover, make sure to pack your binoculars. Because this reserve is an isolated patch of high-quality native forest surrounded by farmland, it acts as a magnet for local birdlife. It is a vital "island" of habitat where birds can feed and nest safely.
Tip: The best time for birdwatching is early morning or late afternoon when the forest is most active. Stand still for two minutes near one of the larger matai trees, and you’ll be amazed at how much life reveals itself once the sound of your footsteps fades.
The Elsthorpe Scenic Reserve Loop Track is truly a year-round destination, but each season brings a different flavour to the walk:
The Elsthorpe area has a rich history, both in terms of its natural heritage and its human stories. Originally, vast swathes of Central Hawke's Bay were covered in this dense podocarp forest. For local Māori, these forests were a vital source of food (mahinga kai) and materials. The berries of the miro and matai attracted birds, which were harvested sustainably, while the plants provided rongoā (traditional medicine).
During the 19th century, much of the region was converted to pastoral farmland. The Elsthorpe Scenic Reserve is a "remnant," a precious survivor of that era. Its preservation is a testament to the importance of protecting biodiversity; without small pockets like this, many of our native species would have no place to go.
The nearby Kairakau Beach also holds significance, with its dramatic cliffs and the river mouth being a site of long-standing importance for local iwi and a popular spot for traditional fishing. Visiting the reserve and the beach together gives you a full picture of the region's diverse landscape.
Once you’ve finished your loop and perhaps enjoyed a snack at the trailhead picnic table, you’ve got a couple of great options for the rest of your day:
The Elsthorpe Scenic Reserve Loop Track might be short, but it offers a profound connection to the natural world. It’s a reminder of the beauty that remains when we protect our native heritage, and it’s a walk that will leave you feeling refreshed, grounded, and just a little bit more in love with Hawke’s Bay.
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
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
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
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round