This easy walk is a great introduction to nature, and has a well defined and easy to follow track that is suitable for children of all ages. As the name of the walk suggests, mature kahikatea are abundant in this reserve, and if the ground is dry enough try lying on your back to look up at the canopy and admire these majestic native trees. There is a stand of rata trees beside the track that started out life by piggy-backing on larger trees. They perch in the tree as an epiphyte and send down roots that then form their ground support. As the rata grows, its roots become twisted and interwoven with each other. The rata then grows larger than its host tree, sometimes killing it in the process. 

Getting there
The track is located in the Pohangina Valley about 40 minutes drive from Palmerston North. From Ashhurst, drive north along Pohangina Road, then turn right onto Pohangina Valley East Road. Go past the Highland Youth Camp on your right and Pohangina Valley East Road veers off to the right. Stay on this road and the track is located on your left approximately 1km past Arbon's Road.

Key things to remember in the outdoors:

Stick to the trail and respect the environment by making sure the only thing you leave behind are footprints.   

The weather can change in an instant. Make sure you plan ahead, take the right clothing and adequate food, water and supplies. Check out these gear lists for walks and hikes. 

• Tell a trusted person your plans and when to raise the alarm if you haven’t returned. Send them the information directly, or use Plan My Walk.  
• Get an up-to-date weather report from the Metservice website before setting off. 
• Follow the five essential steps of the Land Safety Code.