This nature reserve is probably Waikanae’s best known attraction (Southward’s Museum is technically in Paraparaumu) and definitely worth a visit.

Nga Manu means the birds and you’ll see plenty of them in the aviaries, as well as flying wild.  But there are also gecko and tuatara lizards, and nocturnal animals to be seen in dark rooms.

Just as appealing, though, is the large expanse of native forest though which walking tracks have been made and the number of different tree species that you get to see, a lot of them thoughtfully provided with an interpretation board nearby.   Those who live in Manu Grove, Hurunui Street and Awanui Drive live among the outskirts of this native bush area.

In one place an observation tower has been built which provides a view of the forest with the Tararua foothills in the distance.  And there is no sight or sound of the ‘Ewy’.

There is an admission charge, but you’ll quickly appreciate why they need it.

The Nga Manu website