Last updated July 2026
The Okitu Bush Scenic Reserve offers a short, easy loop walk through native bush just 8 km east of central Gisborne at the northern end of Wainui Beach. Managed by the Department of Conservation, the reserve provides a peaceful family-friendly escape with a well-formed track, picnic area and lookout platform overlooking the coast. Visitors can complete the loop in 20 to 30 minutes while spotting native birds and enjoying restored coastal forest. The site also serves as an educational reserve for school groups learning about biodiversity and conservation. Access is free with a small car park, though care is needed due to traffic on State Highway 35.
Practical Information
| Location | SH35 / Whāngārā Road, northern end of Wainui Beach, 8 km east of central Gisborne |
| Trail length | Approximately 1–1.2 km loop |
| Time | 20–30 minutes |
| Difficulty | Easy, well-graded track suitable for most ages and fitness levels |
| Access | Small car park near Makorori Point; caution advised with SH35 traffic |
| Dogs | Not allowed |
| Facilities | Grassy picnic area with tables, lookout platform, three footbridges; no toilets |
| Cost | Free |
About Okitu Bush Scenic Reserve
The Okitu Bush Scenic Reserve protects a remnant of modified coastal forest that has been restored through decades of planting and weed control. Originally featuring puriri and kohekohe, the 2.66-hectare site now supports a broader range of native species thanks to ongoing conservation work. Its location beside Wainui Beach makes it a convenient stop for those exploring Gisborne’s east coast beaches and headlands.
The reserve functions as both a recreational space and an educational site. School groups regularly visit to learn about native plants, birds and habitat restoration. The Department of Conservation maintains the tracks, fencing and facilities, continuing work begun by the Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society.
Visitors appreciate the short, shady loop that offers a quick immersion in bush without requiring significant time or effort. The track passes creeks and leads to a lookout with views across Wainui Beach and surrounding hills, providing a pleasant contrast to the open coastline nearby.
Access and Parking
The reserve lies on State Highway 35 at the northern end of Wainui Beach, with a small car park located near the base of Makorori Point. Drivers should exercise caution when entering and exiting because traffic on the highway can appear with little warning. Visitors are advised to supervise children near the road and to stand clear of the carriageway.
Pedestrian access is possible from central Gisborne via Gladstone and Wainui Roads, though most people arrive by car. The site has no commercial facilities, so visitors should bring their own water, food and supplies.
The Walking Track
The main feature is a well-formed loop track that crosses three small footbridges and takes 20 to 30 minutes to complete. The path is graded and suitable for a wide range of walkers, including families with children. A short side track leads to the lookout platform offering views of Wainui Beach and the hills.
The track surface includes some steps and gentle undulations. While generally easy, the presence of steps and uneven sections means it is not designed for wheelchairs or mobility scooters. An extension connects through to Sirrah Street, allowing longer walks that combine the reserve with nearby coastal paths.
History and Conservation
The reserve was created in 1974 when Winifred Frances Lysnar donated 2.66 hectares, known informally as “Lysnar’s Bush”, to the Crown in memory of her parents. The Gisborne branch of the Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society initially managed the site, clearing weeds and planting around 3,500 native plants. The Department of Conservation assumed management in 1988 and has continued the planting programme and facility upgrades.
Substantial plantings over subsequent decades have reintroduced or strengthened species including whau, mahoe, totara, kawakawa, kauri and others. Some species not originally endemic to the district now thrive, likely aided by local climate conditions. The reserve remains a model of community-supported bush regeneration on the East Coast.
Wildlife and Vegetation
Commonly seen and heard birds include kererū (native wood pigeon), pīwakawaka (fantail), and occasional tūī, grey warbler and bellbirds. The restored forest provides habitat for these species and supports the reserve’s role in local biodiversity education.
Original vegetation consisted of a small remnant of modified coastal forest dominated by puriri and kohekohe. Ongoing plantings have created a more diverse broad-leaved forest that visitors can enjoy while walking the loop.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors describe the reserve as a quick, pleasant bush walk ideal for families or a short break near the beach. Many appreciate the shady track, picnic tables and coastal views from the lookout, noting it is easy enough for children and offers good birdwatching opportunities.
Reviewers frequently mention the convenience of the location just outside Gisborne and the peaceful atmosphere. Some note the need to watch for traffic when using the car park and recommend sturdy shoes after rain when the track can become muddy.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Official page with track description, history and visitor information for Okitu Bush Scenic Reserve Walk.
Tapuwae Tairāwhiti Trails: Local trail details including distance, grade and connections to nearby paths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entrance fee?
No, entry to Okitu Bush Scenic Reserve is free.
Are dogs allowed?
No, dogs are not permitted on the track to protect wildlife.
Are there toilets?
No toilets are available at the reserve. Visitors should plan accordingly.
Is the track wheelchair accessible?
The track includes steps and uneven sections and is not suitable for wheelchairs.
How long is the loop?
The loop is approximately 1–1.2 km and takes 20–30 minutes for most walkers.
What facilities are available?
There is a grassy picnic area with tables near the car park and a lookout platform with coastal views.
Can I cycle or ride a horse?
No, cycling and horse riding are not permitted in the reserve.
Is the reserve suitable for children?
Yes, the easy graded track and nearby creeks make it popular with families, though children should be supervised near the road and car park.
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