The University of Auckland Huapai Reserve

Welcome to The University of Auckland Huapai Reserve, located in Waimauku, Kauri Crescent, New Zealand. This establishment is not just a park, but also a remarkable point of interest that offers a unique experience for nature enthusiasts and researchers alike.

Spanning across 15 hectares, Huapai Reserve is a haven for kauri forest, mature kanuka scrub, and various other native plant species. The reserve is home to magnificent puriri, taraire, rewarewa, and podocarps, showcasing the rich biodiversity that New Zealand has to offer.

The history of this reserve dates back to 1947 when the liquidators of Northern Fruitlands generously bequeathed 12 hectares of kauri forest to the University for preservation and research purposes. Recognizing the importance of this natural treasure, the University later purchased an additional block of land to extend the reserve to its current size of 15 hectares.

Aside from the iconic kauri and mature kanuka scrub, Huapai Reserve boasts stunning gullies filled with distinct vegetation. Here, you can explore areas adorned with kahikatea, tree ferns, nikau palms, and supple-jack, providing a diverse and captivating landscape to discover.

The University of Auckland Huapai Reserve also serves as an invaluable resource for academic purposes. Students studying GEOG 261: Climate and Hydrology can embark on field trips to gain hands-on experience in this natural environment. Additionally, BIOSCI 320: Pure and Applied Entomology and BIOSCI 323: Plant Diversity students can conduct sample collections within the reserve to enhance their research.

Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a student, or a researcher, Huapai Reserve welcomes you to explore its beauty and contribute to the preservation of New Zealand's unique flora and fauna. For more information about visiting or conducting research in this remarkable reserve, please feel free to email us at reserves@auckland.ac.nz.