The Grove Scenic Reserve |
Click here to go to the next walk > |
From Takaka, drive north-east towards Pohara Beach. At Clifton turn right and follow the signs for about 1km to a small car park and picnic area.
"The Grove" is characterised by massive rata trees growing out of curiously-shaped limestone outcrops. Nikau palms are also a feature of the reserve.
The track winds through the narrow canyons in the limestone ending up at a dramatic lookout offering views of the surrounding countryside, Golden Bay and the backdrop of the Kahurangi Park. In early summer the rata is a blaze of red but at any time of the year the short (10 minute) walk from the car park to the viewpoint is well worth the effort.
The tentacle-like roots of northern rata trees that hang down many of the blocks create an eerie atmosphere. Nikau palms are also a feature of the reserve.
Usually, northern rata begins its life in accumulated forest debris high in the branches of a tree. At the Grove, however, sufficient plant material is available on the limestone blocks for rata to take a hold there. As the rata trees get bigger, they send roots down to the ground, enveloping their rocky hosts like a giant hand.
The Grove is one of several very special places that make up the newly established Golden Bay Crimson Trail. Seven sites along Abel Tasman Drive and beyond, from Takaka to Totaranui have been designated as outstanding examples of the ancient and majestic northern rata tree. The trunks and root systems growing over the limestone rocks are incredible at any time but even more so during the peak crimson flowering period around mid-December.
  |
