Barry Hadfield Nikau Reserve is accessible from Old State Highway 1. Going towards Paraparaumu from Waikanae on the Kapiti Coast, it is directly off to the left at the exit for Nikau Valley.
This is a truly superb patch of native nikau palm groves. The Reserve is visible from the motorway as a patch of multi-coloured green between pine plantations on one side and pasture on the other. It is comprised mostly of mature nikau palms and is dedicated to Barry Hadfield, the first Mayor of Kāpiti.
From the car park, there is an obvious start to the trail by the information board. The main walk is a climb up to the lookout at the reserve's top, returning the same way. The lookout has excellent views back towards the coast and across to Kāpiti Island. The path is well-maintained, with wider gravel paths and boardwalks. However, it does get steeper with mud and tree-root steps near the top.
As a longer option, continue on with the loop over the peak and down the other side into Nikau Valley.
