Hemi Matenga Memorial Park

Waikanae

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4.8 on Google · 44 reviews

Hemi Matenga Memorial Park is a 330-hectare DOC scenic reserve rising above Waikanae and home to one of New Zealand's largest remaining stands of native kohekohe forest, linking the Tararua Ranges with Kapiti Island. The main entrance is at Tui Crescent, with three signposted walks - the easy 30-minute Kohekohe Walk, the steep 1-2 hour Parata Track and the 3-4 hour Te Au Track climbing to the 514m summit with sweeping views of Kapiti Island and the coast. This is a bush-walking and bird-watching reserve rather than a playground - bring boots, water and a layer; it is well-regarded as a serious local walk and is best for school-aged kids upwards.

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Visits (10)

Bronwyn

Google15 Apr 20260Helpful

We took the uphill walk. A lot of roots and mud which meant slow going at times. One hour to the first lookout, another 20 minutes to the second lookout. A popular walk behind Waikanae.

Rachel D.

Google15 Apr 20260Helpful

This is a beautiful place to visit . It almost feels otherworldly with gnarly tendrils handing down from trees you can just picture Tarzan swinging from. There is a short walks of 30 minutes which is less challenging and longer walks with take a number of hours and is for more accommodation walkers .