Covering 53 hectares of remnant virgin bush south of Rangiwahia village, this community-maintained reserve preserves a pocket of ancient forest as it stood before European settlement. Two pest-control routes are open to walkers, marked with pink triangles: the One Hour Track, taking around an hour and a quarter return, and the Three Hour Track, a 4.5-kilometre loop through steeper, more varied terrain. Both are genuine bush trails rather than manicured paths, requiring sturdy footwear, warm layers, and drinking water.
Visitors appreciate the tree diversity and informative trail signs, noting that the undulating ground is heavily laced with tree roots underfoot. Insect repellent is recommended during summer when mosquitoes are active. Dogs are welcome if kept under control and up to date with worming, though owners should keep them on a lead near the perimeter by adjacent farmland. Access is via Mangoira Street just off Rangiwahia Road, where signs point to the dedicated car park rather than the route suggested by older satellite navigation maps. A mailbox at the trailhead holds a visitors book. Our pick in northern Manawatu for an immersive tramp through untouched native canopy.