Barry Hadfield Nikau Reserve — Attraction in North Island

This is a little gem of a reserve - a few minutes out of Paraparaumu right on the SH2, you can step out of the car directly into a rainforest-like paradise of original Nikau palm and KoheKohe, two interesting trees to find making up a forest. An easy loop path at the bottom can give anyone a taste of what much of the coast looked like before clearing. Running water adds to the peace and makes this a great place for mushroom and bird spotters. Taking the steep 20 min climb to the picnic table at the top is a nice way to experience more for of the forest for the more physically inclined and gives an extra reward as the views are spectacular. It's well worth going up for the sunset, but take a torch as you will be descending in quite dark conditions. It is also an end or start point to a longer walk that can be undertaken through private and public land along the ridges leading to...

Must go place if you’re a palm lover. Dense, natural and beautiful. More Nikau Palms in one place than you’ve ever seen. The path takes a step route skyward by way of many many steps but the view over Kapiti Coast makes the 30min trek worthwhile. Go when the ground is dry (wait a few days after the rain). There are no bathrooms and no litterbins, so take your litter with you and 'go' before you arrive. Great views from the top, best views of...

Signage could be better as there is a loop track however the northern of the two tracks is hard to find and requires maintenance. I loved this aspect but I know the tracks from childhood so no problems getting lost. The main climb track has really cool stairs and s sense of floating in the Bush. Great HIT opportunity for those who want to run it. Make sure your car is secured as there is often broken glass from...