A H Reed Memorial Kauri Park is CLOSED for kauri protection. Phytophthora agathidicida, which causes kauri dieback, has been found. This reserve is temporarily closed while we undertake further testing.
The A H Reed Memorial Park is a magnificent remnant of the original Northland kauri forest.
Maturing kauri trees known to be at least 500 years old can be easily viewed close up from a raised walkway through the forest canopy.
The bubbling Wai Koromiko Stream runs through the middle of the park and the Paranui Falls, at over 23m high, are well worth a visit.
The site received recreational reserve status in 1889 and was named in 1956 after the well known author and publisher A H Reed who had an interest in long distance walking, the natural environment and kauri trees in particular.
Dogs are prohibited from the loop. However, dogs are allowed on leash on Hātea River walkway to Whangārei Falls only, which passes through the western side of the park.
There are three carparks for visitors to use.
The park can also be reached by walking from the Hātea River Walkway or from the Sands Road / Clapham Road link to the north.
The Canopy Walkway is an experience in itself and is considered to be a ‘must do’ for visitors to Whangārei. The park offers a variety of scenery and experiences for people of all abilities.
There may be some known and potential hazards that users should be aware of and avoid.
Known hazards in caves and on Council reserves
There are several loop tracks through the park, with one designed to be suited for people of all abilities including wheelchair users. Times given are for walking the tracks in one direction only.
Grade: 1 Time: 30 minutes Distance: 890 metres
From the lower carpark, cross over the bridge by the information board and then right onto the surfaced Alexander Walk.
At the cross ways, turn left over the Canopy Walkway to the large kauri trees. The Elizabeth Track (steeper, with steps and not surfaced) makes a circular walk back to the carpark.
Grade: 1 Time: 15 minutes Distance: 300 metres
From the middle carpark, take the ramp down to the cross ways. Turn right along the Alexander Track over the stream and then left along the McKinnon Track. At the large kauri trees, turn left over the Canopy Walkway back to the base of the ramp near the middle carpark.
This walk is suitable for wheelchairs and the less able.
The walk can be extended down the Alexander Walk to the lower carpark but some people may find the return walk a little too steep.
Grade: 2 Time: 60 minutes Distance: 1450 metres
From the lower carpark, take the Alexander Walk to the right. At the Canopy Walkway, continue ahead to the McKinnon Track and then turn right. This track becomes quite steep and uneven in places.
There are two lookouts over the Paranui Falls from near the top where there are also many kauri rickers (young trees). The Elizabeth Track can be used to make a circular walk back to the carpark, via the large kauri trees.
AH Reed Memorial Park, Whareora Road, Whangārei 0112 View Map
AH Reed Memorial Park, Whareora Road , Whangārei 0112
1 - A well made path with easy access for most people including families.
2 - A short walk generally on well made path but may include steeper sections.
3 - A longer walking track usually well made including steps and more suitable for people with reasonable fitness.
A H Reed Memorial Kauri Park walkway map(PDF, 172KB)
A H Reed Memorial Park - Hātea Walkway to Whangarei Falls map(PDF, 159KB)
Summer safe carparks
Find on-leash dog walks and off-leash areas, and check our online map for dog-access rules across the District:
Where can I take my dog?
See the project page for details