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Morere Recreation Reserve, Wairoa
1 km
30 minutes
50 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you are looking for a slice of prehistoric New Zealand that feels more like a tropical film set than a standard forest hike, the Nikau Pools Track in the Morere Recreation Reserve is calling your name. Tucked away in the Wairoa District on the scenic East Coast, this trail is a absolute treasure for locals and a "must-see" for any tourist making the trip between Napier and Gisborne.
At just 1 kilometre long, it might seem like a quick dash, but don’t let the distance fool you. This is a walk designed for lingering. Whether you are a family with little adventurers in tow or a solo hiker looking for a moment of quiet reflection, the Nikau Pools Track offers a concentrated dose of Aotearoa’s natural beauty without requiring a whole day’s commitment or heavy-duty hiking boots.
Stepping onto the Nikau Pools Track feels like stepping back in time. The trail is an easy, well-marked loop that takes about 30 minutes to complete at a leisurely pace. The terrain is gentle, with only a 50-metre elevation gain, making it perfectly accessible for kids and those who prefer a "stroll" over a "scramble."
The path is an all-weather surface, which is a blessing in the lush, damp climate of the Morere bush. As you begin the loop, you are immediately enveloped by a dense, emerald canopy. The star of the show here is undoubtedly the Nikau palm. These aren't just any palms; they are the world's most southerly naturally growing palms, and in Morere, they grow in spectacular abundance. Their feathered fronds overlap overhead, creating a "cathedral of green" that filters the sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor.
As you wander, you’ll find yourself walking alongside the Mangakawa Stream. The sound of the water babbling over smooth stones provides a constant, soothing soundtrack to your journey. The air here is noticeably cooler and fresher, scented with the earthy aroma of damp ferns and moss. Along the way, you’ll encounter several interpretive signs. Take a moment to read them—they offer wonderful insights into the complex ecosystem of the lowland rainforest and the deep cultural history held within these trees.
While the track is short, the atmosphere is incredibly immersive. It has a "jungle-like" vibe that is rare to find in such an accessible location. Because it’s a loop, the scenery keeps changing, offering new perspectives of the towering ancient natives and the intricate undergrowth before leading you back to the heart of the reserve.
Ample parking is available at the main entrance of Morere Hot Springs (Nga Hua o Mōrere) located directly off State Highway 2.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
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
Renowned for its melodious, bell-like song, it plays a vital role in pollinating native plants.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
100m away
Located within the Morere Hot Springs complex, this cafe offers refreshments and light meals for visitors before or after their soak and walk.
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Loop
The undeniable crown jewel of this walk is the Nikau Pools themselves. This series of natural mineral hot pools is the ultimate reward for your "hard work" on the trail. What makes these pools truly unique is the water. Unlike many volcanic springs in the North Island, the water at Morere is ancient, fossilised seawater that has been trapped underground for thousands of years. It is incredibly mineral-rich and renowned for its therapeutic properties.
As you reach the pool area, you’ll see stainless steel tubs nestled right into the bush. They are shaded by timber awnings, but the native vegetation is so close you can almost touch the ferns while you soak. It’s a harmonious blend of modern convenience and raw nature.
Another highlight is the Nikau Palm stands. Seeing these palms in such high density is a rare treat. They give the forest a prehistoric look, and you wouldn't be surprised to see a dinosaur poking its head through the fronds! For the photographers out there, the bridge over the Mangakawa Stream provides a stunning vantage point for a classic New Zealand "bush and water" shot.
Finding the Nikau Pools Track is straightforward, making it a great pit-stop on a coastal road trip. The trailhead is located within the Morere Recreation Reserve, which is situated directly off State Highway 2.
If you are driving from Wairoa, it’s about a 40-minute scenic drive north. If you’re coming down from Gisborne, it’s roughly 45 minutes south. There is ample parking available at the main entrance of the Nga Hua o Mōrere Hot Springs complex. Once you’ve parked, the track is clearly signposted from the main visitor area.
The Morere Recreation Reserve is a haven for native birdlife, and the Nikau Pools Track provides a front-row seat to their daily antics. Because the forest is so thick and healthy, the bird song here is often loud and layered.
Tip: For the best birdwatching, try to start your walk early in the morning when the "dawn chorus" is at its peak, or in the late afternoon when the birds become active again before dusk.
The Nikau Pools Track is a true four-season destination, but each season brings a different flavour to the experience:
The land around Morere holds deep significance for the local Māori, specifically the Ngāti Rakaipaaka iwi. The traditional name for the springs is Ngā Waiariki o Ngāti Rakaipaaka. For centuries, these waters have been used for their healing and rejuvenating powers, and that sense of spiritual wellness still permeates the reserve today.
Geologically, the area is fascinating. The fact that the springs are fed by ancient seawater—not volcanic activity—is a rarity in New Zealand. It serves as a reminder of the country’s submerged past and the powerful tectonic forces that shaped the East Coast.
The Morere Recreation Reserve is also a vital conservation area. Lowland rainforests like this were once common across New Zealand but were largely cleared for farming. Morere remains one of the last significant stands of its kind, making the Nikau Pools Track not just a walk, but a journey through a rare, protected remnant of New Zealand’s original landscape.
Once you’ve finished your loop and had a relaxing soak in the mineral waters, you’re bound to have worked up an appetite. You don’t have to travel far to refuel.
The Nga Hua o Mōrere Hot Springs Cafe is located right within the complex, just a 100-metre stroll from the trailhead. It’s a classic, friendly kiwi cafe offering great coffee, cold drinks, and a range of light meals and snacks. It’s the perfect spot to sit down, enjoy the forest views from a different angle, and chat about the birds you spotted on the trail. It’s a very casual environment, so you’ll feel right at home in your walking gear.
The Nikau Pools Track is proof that you don’t need to hike for days to find something truly special. It’s a short, sweet, and soul-soothing experience that perfectly captures the magic of the Wairoa District.
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
Best time: Spring-Autumn