Hinewai Reserve: Unique Eco Restoration
Hinewai Reserve, a 1,250-hectare eco-restoration project, is located on the eastern side of the crater rim at the southern end of Summit Road on Banks Peninsula. This expansive reserve stretches from Stony Bay Peak at 806 metres down to near sea level. It is bordered by Brocheries Road to the north and Long Bay Road to the south, with Long Bay Road providing access from Akaroa. The reserve is renowned for its extensive network of walking tracks through both established and regenerating native forest.
A Privately Managed Conservation Effort
The reserve is privately owned and managed by the Maurice White Native Forest Trust. The conservation project began in 1987 with the purchase of 109 hectares. This was followed by the acquisition of Ōtānerito Station in 1991 and several other purchases over the years. In 2016, the Trust expanded its management to include the 192-hectare Purple Peak Curry Reserve on the west side of Brocheries Road.
Introducing the Walking Tracks
Hinewai Reserve offers a variety of freely accessible walking tracks, catering to different preferences and fitness levels. The main entrance to the track network is off Long Bay Road, but you can also access the trails from other boundary roads. The walks range from short, easy loops to challenging full-day hikes that traverse the reserve from top to bottom. As you walk through the reserve, you'll encounter a diverse array of native plants and enjoy the unique character of its manager, Hugh Wilson.
Meet the Manager: Hugh Wilson
Hugh Wilson, the manager of Hinewai Reserve, is known for his engaging personality and dedication to the reforestation project. He is responsible for the often amusing signs, the hand-drawn map, and a regular newsletter that still arrives in your letterbox. Meeting Hugh in person is a highlight, and he is frequently around the reserve. His work and the reserve itself were featured in the documentary "Fools and Dreamers", which chronicles the reforestation efforts.
Getting to Hinewai Reserve
To reach Hinewai Reserve, from Akaroa, take State Highway 75 a short distance north, then turn east onto Long Bay Road. This climbs up the crater rim to an intersection of Summit Road and Brocheries Road, then crosses over and heads down towards the coast. You will see the small car park and access gate to the reserve on the right. The drive is 8.5 km and will take 13 minutes, on a sealed but winding road.
Walks within the reserve are described here, with the Hinewai Beech Forest being a highlight. Nearby, along Summit Road, you can also discover the remnant forest in the Ōtepātotu Reserve.
