Gray's Bush Scenic Reserve Walks

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The absolute crown jewel of Gray’s Bush is its status as a nationally rare ecosystem. This is the very last surviving stand of kahikatea and pūriri forest on the Gisborne plains. Elsewhere, this land was cleared decades ago for the region’s famous orchards and farms, making this 12-hectare pocket a literal lifesaver for local biodiversity.

The Ancient Kahikatea: Keep an eye out for the kahikatea (white pine). Many of these majestic trees are between 400 and 500 years old. Some reach heights of 40 metres, standing like prehistoric pillars. They are New Zealand’s tallest native trees, and seeing them in such a concentrated area is awe-inspiring.

The Pūriri Trees: While the kahikatea provides the height, the pūriri provides the character. These trees have thick, gnarled trunks and dark green, glossy leaves. They are famous for being a year-round food source for native birds, as they often produce flowers and fruit at the same time.

Toyota Kiwi Guardians: If you are walking with kids, Gray’s Bush is an official Toyota Kiwi Guardians site. This is a fantastic initiative that encourages "young explorers" to follow an adventure map and find a secret code word. It’s a brilliant way to keep the little ones engaged with the environment while they learn about conservation.

Educational Signage: Scattered along the path are high-quality interpretation signs. Don't just rush past them! They offer fascinating insights into the "semi-coastal" nature of the forest and help you identify trees like the pukatea, māhoe, and the rare mataī.

Getting There

Getting to the trailhead is a breeze, located just 10 kilometres northeast of Gisborne city.

From the city centre, head north on Gladstone Road, which eventually turns into Back Ormond Road. Follow this for about 10 to 15 minutes through the beautiful rural landscape. The reserve is well-signposted and sits at the intersection where Back Ormond Road meets Harper Road.

There is a spacious, free car park right at the entrance. Even on a busy weekend, you can usually find a spot. The entrance to the tracks is clearly marked from the parking area, and you’ll find an information kiosk there to help you choose which loop to start with.

Wildlife Spotting

Gray’s Bush is a bustling metropolis for birdlife. Because it is an island of native bush in a sea of farmland, birds flock here for safety and food.

• Tūī and Bellbirds (Makomako): You will hear these before you see them. Their melodic, bell-like calls provide a constant soundtrack to your walk. Look for the tūī with its distinctive white throat tuft diving through the pūriri branches.
• Piwakawaka (Fantail): These friendly little birds are almost guaranteed to join you. They love to follow hikers, flitting about to catch the tiny insects disturbed by your footsteps.
• Kererū: The heavy "whoosh-whoosh" of wings usually signals the arrival of the kererū (New Zealand pigeon). These large, iridescent green and white birds are often seen perched precariously on thin branches, feasting on berries.
• Shining Cuckoo (Pīpīwharauroa): If you visit in spring or summer, listen for the rising whistle of the shining cuckoo. They are migratory visitors and a classic sign that warmer weather has arrived.
• North Island Kākā: While rare, these charismatic parrots are occasional seasonal visitors. If you hear a loud, harsh screech that sounds like a prehistoric dinosaur, look up—it might be a kākā!

Tip: The best time for bird spotting is early morning or late afternoon when the forest is "waking up" or "bedding down." Bring a pair of binoculars if you have them!

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

Gray’s Bush is a year-round destination, but each season brings a different flavour to the reserve:

• Spring: This is arguably the best time for bird enthusiasts. The forest is alive with song, and the shining cuckoo makes its appearance. The new growth on the ferns makes the undergrowth look incredibly vibrant.
• Summer: When the Gisborne sun is scorching, Gray’s Bush is the perfect place to retreat. The thick canopy provides a natural air-conditioning effect, keeping the trails significantly cooler than the open plains.
• Autumn & Winter: The forest remains evergreen, so it never looks "dead." The dampness of winter brings out the earthy scents of the bush and makes the mosses and lichens on the tree trunks pop with colour.

• Footwear: While the track is flat and well-formed, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. If it has been raining, some sections can get a little muddy, and the tree roots can be slick.
• Bug Spray: Like any dense New Zealand bush, the mosquitoes can be a bit friendly in the summer months. A quick spray before you head in is a good idea.
• Water: There are no water fountains inside the reserve, so bring a bottle for the hour-long walk.
• Sun Protection: Even though you are under the canopy, the NZ sun is strong. Wear sunscreen for the walk to and from the car park.

Important Note: To protect the delicate balance of this rare ecosystem and the nesting birds, dogs are not permitted in the reserve.

Local & Regional Context

To truly appreciate Gray’s Bush, you have to understand its history. Before European settlement, the Gisborne plains (the Poverty Bay flats) were a mosaic of wetlands and massive hardwood forests. As the region became a powerhouse for New Zealand’s agriculture, almost all of this forest was cleared.

In 1914, the recreational and botanical value of this specific patch was recognised. It was originally part of the estate of Charles Gray, a local landowner. After his passing, his estate offered the land to the Crown, and it was formally reserved in 1926. It has been managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC) since 1979.

Today, DOC runs intensive pest control programmes here. By targeting possums and rats, they ensure that the pūriri trees can fruit and the native birds can hatch their chicks in safety. When you walk through here, you are seeing a successful conservation story in action. It is a tiny window into the past, preserved for the future.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your loop and filled your lungs with fresh forest air, you’re only a short drive from some of Gisborne’s best spots to refuel.

• Sunshine Brewery: If you're heading back into town, stop by this local icon. They offer fantastic craft beers and delicious pizzas in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
• Frank & Albie’s: For a great coffee and perhaps the best sandwiches in town, this is a local favourite. It’s perfect for grabbing a post-hike treat.
• Zephyr Wine Bar: If you want to lean into the Gisborne "Chardonnay Capital" vibe, head to the inner harbour. It’s a beautiful spot to sit by the water and reflect on your walk through the ancient bush.

Gray’s Bush Scenic Reserve is a gentle reminder of the resilience of nature. It’s a short walk, but the feeling of standing amongst 500-year-old giants will stay with you long after you’ve left the trail.