Once Coastal Acreage … Now A Rainforest Scenic Reserve

Milnthorpe Park is a popular Golden Bay scenic reserve. Once, it was an un-used coastal site of 400 acres. In 1974 the Department of Lands and Survey began a project to turn this area into a rainforest.

By 1976 it was apparent the soils were too poor to nurture native plants. So Plan B was put into place. Exotic trees, adapted to grow in impoverished soils were planted. These trees (such as eucalyptus and acacia) grew quickly and provided a canopy of shade and enriched the top soil.

Tens of thousands of native specimens were then successfully planted. As the forest grew and pest control was introduced, the bird population flourished.

Now over 40 years later ‘Milnthorpe Park’ attracts many visitors. It has numerous walking tracks scattered all over. Sculptures created by local artists can be seen hidden amongst the trees.

Some of the trees we saw were; rimu, rata, totara, kahikatea, miro, matai and the initial exotic species that were planted.

Many birds seek safety amongst these trees. Although we heard a range of different birds we didn’t have much luck sighting any. However the park is host to tui, bellbird, wood-pigeon and fantail. Less common birds include; weka, tomtit, fernbird, grey warbler, shining cuckoo, morepork and falcon. And being near the coast there are several varieties of sea birds.

Located by the main entry is a box of pamphlets  - these share information on the area and have a useful map showing named tracks. And there are lots!

We appreciated that it was a dog friendly reserve. With so many paths to follow it never felt crowded, even though the carpark indicated otherwise.