Edendale Scenic Reserve
Nestled in the rolling farmlands of Southland, the Edendale Scenic Reserve offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s natural heritage. This small but significant pocket of native bush stands as a testament to the lush forests that once blanketed much of the area, providing a stark contrast to the surrounding pastoral landscape.
Location and Access
The Edendale Scenic Reserve is located just off State Highway 1, approximately 40 kilometres north of Invercargill and a stone’s throw from the small township of Edendale. Its proximity to the main highway makes it an ideal spot for travellers to stretch their legs and immerse themselves in nature, even if only for a brief moment.
Historical Significance
The reserve is a remnant of the extensive podocarp-broadleaf forests that dominated Southland’s lowlands before European settlement. As such, it offers a window into the past, showcasing the type of vegetation that would have greeted early Māori and European settlers to the region.
The Southland District Council’s District Wide Reserve Management Plan highlights the importance of such reserves, stating that they play a crucial role in “protecting and preserving in perpetuity areas of the district possessing recreational use or potential, both active and passive, scenic interest or beauty, or native flora or fauna.”
Flora and Fauna
Despite its modest size, the Edendale Scenic Reserve boasts a diverse range of native plant species. Visitors can expect to see:
- Towering podocarps such as rimu and kahikatea
- Broadleaf species including tōtara and mataī
- A rich understory of ferns, including the iconic silver fern (ponga)
The reserve also provides a habitat for various native bird species. While the birdlife may not be as abundant as in larger protected areas, keen-eyed visitors might spot:
- Tūī
- Bellbirds (korimako)
- Fantails (pīwakawaka)
- Wood pigeons (kererū)
Walking Tracks
The reserve features a short, well-maintained walking track that meanders through the bush. This easy walk is suitable for most fitness levels and ages, making it an excellent option for families or those looking for a quick nature fix.
The track offers interpretive signage, providing information about the native plants and their traditional uses by Māori. This educational aspect adds depth to the walking experience, allowing visitors to connect more meaningfully with their surroundings.
Conservation Efforts
Like many small reserves in Aotearoa, the Edendale Scenic Reserve faces ongoing challenges from invasive species and the effects of fragmentation. Local conservation groups, in conjunction with the Department of Conservation (DOC) and the Southland District Council, work tirelessly to maintain the reserve’s ecological integrity.
Efforts include:
- Regular pest control to protect native flora and fauna
- Planting of native species to enhance biodiversity
- Maintenance of walking tracks and facilities
Visitors can contribute to these conservation efforts by staying on marked trails, taking rubbish with them, and reporting any signs of pests or damage to DOC or the local council.
Best Time to Visit
The reserve is accessible year-round, but each season offers a unique experience:
- Spring brings a burst of new growth and increased bird activity
- Summer provides warm, long days ideal for picnicking
- Autumn paints the surrounding farmland in golden hues, contrasting beautifully with the evergreen native bush
- Winter offers crisp, clear days and the chance to see the forest in a different light
Nearby Attractions
For those looking to extend their exploration of the area, several other attractions are within easy reach:
- Edendale Crank Up Day: Held annually in January, this event celebrates vintage machinery and rural life.
- Hokonui Moonshine Museum: Located in nearby Gore, this museum tells the fascinating story of illicit whisky-making in the region.
- Dolamore Park: A larger scenic reserve near Gore, offering more extensive walking tracks and camping facilities.
The Edendale Scenic Reserve may be small in size, but its importance in preserving a slice of Southland’s natural heritage cannot be overstated. As pressure on our native ecosystems continues to grow, reserves like this one become increasingly valuable, not just for their ecological significance, but as places where we can connect with nature and gain a deeper appreciation for the unique flora and fauna of our region.
Whether you’re a local seeking a peaceful spot for a lunchtime walk or a traveller passing through on SH1, the Edendale Scenic Reserve offers a chance to step back in time and experience a glimpse of Southland as it once was. It serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation and the role we all play in preserving these pockets of nature for future generations to enjoy.