A’Deanes Bush is the best remaining example of the original forest of the Ruataniwha Plains. The 38.5 ha reserve, dominated by matai and kahikatea, is situated on a flat river terrace which makes it an easy walk for young kids to explore the native forest. It’s safe for the kids to run ahead as the tracks are metaled and boardwalked in muddy sections.
A large tōtara tree, about 34m high, is the focal point of this track that begins at the reserve entrance. It takes at least 7 people to encircle its trunk with their arms and is thought to around 700 years old. The track passes through the forest to the Tukipo River, so in the warmer months pack your togs for a mid-walk dip.
Kids will love spotting the native birds, and if you wait for dusk, you may be lucky to spy some long-tailed bats as they emerge to feed.