... an extension to Grrr's mind...: Pukemokemoke Reserve

Monday, January 31, 2011

Pukemokemoke Reserve

The Pukemokemoke bush reserve is about 25 minutes drive from Hamilton, and the walk there is a similar length to the top (unless you do the longer Nor-East loop). It's a nice hidden away spot of bush, a historic pa site, and a good place to get a bit of exercise on a proper bush track. A map can be found further down this post.

Pukemokemoke Bush Reserve Sign

Pukemokemoke Bush Reserve - Looking across entry bridge

The reserve was formed in 1993 after the land was donated by David Johnstone, and has undergone recent improvements. Since I was last here, new signs have been erected, and even a Gazebo generous donated by the Freegard family.

Pukemokemoke Bush Reserve - Log Hauler site with Gazebo

Of course, signs aren't the reason you come, nor is a gazebo, though it is the sort of facility I might make use of in the future. The real reason you'd come is that this is a nice patch of bush, some of it left from when the area was logged, and some regen, and convinient to town.

There are even a few old Kauri left, put please heed the warnings about cleaning shoes and gear because of Kauri dieback (Phytophthora taxon Agathis). Basic facilities are provided to clean your gear at the start of each track.

Pukemokemoke Bush Reserve - Kauri

In addition to aforementioned Kauri, the reserve also has all manner of other native trees, including large totara. The main track is a loop, you can depart in either left or right direction from the carpark. Should you go left, you'll climb up a steeper track, through the old Pa site and Kauri grove up to the Kawakawa grove. From here, you should ascend to the trig for worthwhile views, then back to the Kawakawa grove (this is a siding). Then, down to the Log Hauler site (where the above Gazebo stands), and back to the carpark.