Location

The Palmer Reserve is in the Bay of Plenty near Pahoia, between Tauranga and Katikati. The block is 8ha, set aside and protected as part of a lifestyle block subdivision. It adjoins a larger piece of privately owned bush which in turn adjoins the Kaimai Ranges Forest Park.

History

The reserve was originally owned by Drs Philip and Viola Palmer, who cared for it for about 12 years, planting trees around the grassy margins and carrying out weed and pest control. When they subdivided their larger block, they protected their reserve by placing a QE2 covenant on it, and ensured its ongoing care by gifting it to the Trust.

Vegetation

The bush is regenerating mixed podocarp and broadleaf with many semi-coastal trees. There are several large pukatea, a ridge of tanekaha, and puriri which attract the NZ pigeon.

Wildlife

The bush attracts high numbers of native birds.

Management

Invasive weeds are being managed. Possums, mustelids and rats are controlled with bait stations and traps.

No hunting without the express permission of the Native Forest Restoration Trust

How to Get There

The Reserve is not open for general visits by the public. The Reserve is situated on Esdaile Rd which leads inland off S.H. 2 at Pahoia, about halfway between Katikati and Tauranga. It is approximately 7 km along Esdaile Rd, about 1.3 km past the Wainui South Rd junction.