Introduction
Auckland’s North Shore is more than just beaches—it’s home to some of the city’s most stunning native forest reserves. Nestled within the suburbs are hidden pockets of ancient trees, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil bush walks waiting to be explored. These natural retreats offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Auckland’s lush landscape, far from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Many of these reserves feature towering kauri, tōtara, and puriri trees, some centuries old. Boardwalks and well-maintained tracks provide easy access, making them perfect for a relaxing nature walk. Whether you're a local or a traveller seeking a quiet escape, these reserves showcase the beauty of New Zealand’s native flora and fauna.
This blog will take you through four remarkable forest reserves on Auckland’s North Shore: Kauri Glen Reserve, Eskdale Reserve, Leigh Scenic Reserve, Gills Scenic Reserve, and Awaruku Reserve. Let’s step into the green and explore!
Kauri Glen Reserve
The Kauri Glen Reserve is in the Auckland suburb of Northcote and has one of the best features of the various North Shore kauri reserves: an 18-metre high, 60-metre treetop walk. Some trees are around 300 to 400 years old. They are not the oldest kauri in Auckland (check out Cascade Kauri for these), but they are a delight!
There are several entrances, but the best is from Kauri Glen Road, a suburban street off Onewa Road. Parking options are limited on all the suburban streets near the access points, so you may need to walk a distance or use a bus that stops on Onewa Road.
Eskdale Reserve
Eskdale Reserve is a hidden sanctuary in Birkenhead, covering a network of forest reserves along Kaipātiki Creek. This 4-hectare reserve is home to regrowth and mature forest, featuring impressive kauri, tōtara, and pūriri trees. A series of well-connected walking tracks weave through the reserve, offering a variety of routes to explore.
One of the highlights is the modest but charming waterfall near the Eskdale Road entrance. Another key attraction is the Pā Harakeke project, where visitors can learn about traditional flax cultivation and Māori weaving. With multiple access points and varying trail lengths, Eskdale Reserve is ideal for casual walkers and nature enthusiasts looking to experience Auckland’s native bush up close.
Leigh Scenic Reserve
Leigh Scenic Reserve is home to the oldest kauri tree on Auckland’s North Shore, estimated to be over 800 years old. This ancient giant is a testament to the region’s pre-European landscape, offering a rare glimpse into the past.
The reserve is accessible through Lynn Reserve in Bayview, where a well-maintained boardwalk protects the delicate kauri ecosystem from dieback disease. The track winds through a mix of young and mature kauri before splitting into two branches, leading to impressive old-growth specimens. The peaceful atmosphere and towering canopy make this reserve a must-visit for tree lovers and anyone seeking a quiet forest escape.
Gills Scenic Reserve
In Albany, Gills Scenic Reserve offers a short but spectacular loop walk through native forest. The reserve’s highlight is the stunning Lucas Waterfall, a five-meter cascade in lush greenery.
The western side of the loop features a dramatic zig-zag climb through a grove of towering nīkau palms and ancient pūriri trees. Along the way, a side track leads to a massive tōtara, whose size is best appreciated from its base. The eastern track winds through regenerating bush and kauri groves, with sections of exotic pine adding variety to the landscape.
For those interested in local history, Lucas Creek—flowing through the reserve—was once an important transport route for early Māori and European settlers. Today, it provides a picturesque setting for a peaceful nature walk.
Awaruku Bush Reserve
Awaruku Bush Reserve in Torbay is a compact but magical forest retreat featuring a rich variety of native plant life. Spanning just three hectares, this hidden gem is home to a 600-year-old kahikatea tree and large puriri and tōtara.
One of the reserve’s unique features is an old quarry, now overgrown with ferns and dripping with water after rain. This serene setting creates an almost mystical atmosphere; according to local sources, glow worms can be seen here at night. Several interconnected tracks lead through the reserve, with a gentle climb toward the upper exit at Moorgreen Heights.
Despite its suburban surroundings, Awaruku Reserve offers an immersive bush experience, perfect for a quick nature escape.
Discover our other articles about the North Shore!
The Gems of the North Shores's Waitamatā Coast, North Shore Coastal Walk, Devonport to Takapuna, North Shore Coastal Walk, Takapuna to Milford, North Shore Coastal Walk, Murrays Bay to Winstone Cove, North Shore Coastal Walk, Rahopara Point to Murrays Bay.