Tōtara Reserve Regional Park lies nestled in the Pohangina Valley; and is highly valued by our community for its biodiversity, cultural and recreational values. The Reserve covers 340 ha of native forest, and offers a wide range of attractions for day visitors and campers including walking tracks, swimming holes, barbecues and picnic spots. Campground bookings are required, and can be made here. Please note, no dogs are allowed within the Reserve, on the walking tracks or in the camping grounds.
A network of walking tracks allow you to explore the mixed podocarp forest. As well as its tall canopy trees, shrub and forest floor communities, the forest is home to a variety of birds and animals, and the tracks offer wonderful views of the Ruahine Range and Pohangina Valley. There are three tracks that can be accessed from Pohangina Valley East Road (Manawatū Scenic Route) on the way to the Tōtara Reserve camping grounds. Additionally, the Nature Trails can be accessed from different locations around the camping grounds.
Up-to-date information on our walking tracks including warnings and closures can be found on the Tōtara Reserve Regional Park website.
There are two campgrounds in Tōtara Reserve. Kererū Campground is the larger of the two, located adjacent to Camp Rangi Woods, while the smaller and more secluded Kahikatea Campground is across the road. The campgrounds are ordinarily open during the summer months from Labour Weekend until the end of April. Bookings are required, and can be made here. For information regarding pricings and the facilities on offer, please visit the Tōtara Reserve Regional Park website.
There are toilet and shower facilities with wheelchair access at both camp sites. The larger and easier to use of these is at the newer ablution block at Kererū Campground. Both setups have been used by campers with wheelchairs and are considered satisfactory.
Tōtara Reserve Flyer 2025
Tōtara Reserve Management Plan 2025