Last updated July 2026
Otawa Reservoir Track offers easy access to the Otawa Scenic Reserve near Te Puke in the western Bay of Plenty. The well-defined track leads through lowland forest to a historic water source. Visitors enjoy peaceful forest walks and opportunities to support local conservation efforts. The reserve protects important habitat for the rare Otawa Hochstetter’s frog and native birds. Access is straightforward from sealed roads with parking available at the Manoeka Road end.
Practical Information
| Location | Otawa Scenic Reserve, end of Manoeka Road, Te Puke |
| Access | From Jellicoe Street in Te Puke via Te Puke Quarry Road or Manoeka Road; sealed car park and picnic area at Manoeka Road end |
| Tracks | Otawa Reservoir Track (15 min one way); Otawa Trig Track (1 hr 15 min–4 hr return options) |
| Difficulty | Reservoir Track easy; Trig Track moderate with some steep sections |
| Facilities | Picnic area at reservoir; no toilets or water on tracks |
| Management | Department of Conservation with Te Whakakaha Trust |
| Best for | Short forest walks, birdwatching, frog habitat viewing |
About Otawa Scenic Reserve
Otawa Scenic Reserve covers 400 hectares of attractive lowland forest in the Papamoa Hills. The forest is dominated by tawa and rewarewa, with notable pūriri groves and other native plants. The reserve protects the habitat of the critically endangered Otawa Hochstetter’s frog, a genetically distinct population found only in this former quarry area.
Te Whakakaha Conservation Trust formed in 2015 to restore the site after quarrying ended around 2009. The Trust works with the Department of Conservation on pest control, planting, and education. The area received sanctuary designation to safeguard the frog and broader ecology, with volunteers supporting ongoing restoration.
Native birds thrive here, including karearea (New Zealand falcon), kaka, korimako (bellbird), totowai (North Island robin), kererū, tūī, and many others. The Trust aims to develop a wildlife corridor linking Otanewainuku Forest through Oropi Forest to the reserve and beyond.
The reserve offers a quiet setting for walking and nature appreciation. The Manoeka Road entrance provides easy access to a picnic area beside the historic reservoir, suitable for most ages and abilities.
Otawa Reservoir Track
The Otawa Reservoir Track starts at the end of Manoeka Road. It crosses a small stream, passes through a pūriri grove, and reaches a clearing beside Te Puke’s original water reservoir. Return the same way. The track is well defined and takes about 15 minutes one way (1 km).
Otawa Trig Track
The Otawa Trig Track follows the ridgeline to the Wharetetarakeho Trig and Otawa Trig. It can be accessed from Te Puke Quarry Road (crossing private farmland; leave gates as found) or from Manoeka Road below the reservoir. The route features some steep ascents and descents but no major climbs.
From Te Puke Quarry Road the full return trip takes around 4 hours. From Manoeka Road it is about 1 hour 15 minutes one way. About 400 metres past the Otawa Trig, a branch leads toward Otanewainuku; this section crosses private land and is not regularly maintained.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers appreciate the peaceful forest setting and the short, easy Reservoir Track that suits families and beginners. Many enjoy the birdlife and the sense of contributing to conservation by visiting a restored former quarry site.
Hikers on the Trig Track note the rewarding views and ridgeline walking, though some mention the steeper sections and the need to respect private land boundaries. Reviewers value the quiet atmosphere away from busier trails.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Official details on access, tracks, and the Otawa Scenic Reserve.
Te Whakakaha Conservation Trust: Information on the frog protection project, volunteering, and sanctuary restoration.
DOC Otawa Reservoir Track page: Track description, duration, and practical guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Otawa Reservoir Track located?
At the end of Manoeka Road near Te Puke, within the Otawa Scenic Reserve in the Bay of Plenty.
How long is the Reservoir Track?
Approximately 1 km one way, taking about 15 minutes.
Is the Otawa Trig Track suitable for beginners?
It has some steep sections and is best for those with moderate fitness; the Reservoir Track is easier.
Can dogs be taken on the tracks?
No dogs are allowed in the Otawa Scenic Reserve.
What wildlife might visitors see?
Native birds such as kaka, bellbird, and robin, plus the rare Otawa Hochstetter’s frog in suitable habitat.
Who manages the reserve?
The Department of Conservation in partnership with the Te Whakakaha Conservation Trust.
Is there parking at the trailhead?
Yes, a sealed car park and picnic area are available at the Manoeka Road entrance.
Are the tracks well maintained?
The main Reservoir and Trig tracks are defined and maintained by DOC; some connecting routes cross private land and receive less maintenance.
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