We met Hugh and Di Willis at the entrance to the reserve at 2.00pm. A group of 19 had assembled to
enjoy the Torbay bush reserves. After introductions, Hugh explained that he was one of the team of people
who were instrumental in saving these areas when subdivisions threatened its existence more than 30 years
ago. Hugh has personally cut over 9 kilometres of track in the area, and has received environmental rewards
for his work.
After a short walk into the reserve we stopped at this 650 year old Kahikatea.
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Crossing the road to another section of the Awaruku reserve where we saw a healthy stand of 100 year
old Kauri trees.
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We emerged from the Awaruku bush and transferred to the Emlyn reserve. This dam was built to hold
back flood water in heavy rain to protect the forest floor and pathways, we crossed over and climbed
up to another part of the reserve, passing the high radio transmitter.
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The path climbed high up a sideling so we were able to view rata right beside the path, although
it was growing considerably high above the ground. Hugh pointed out several native tree species as well
as an Australian invader.
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We stopped to view this 500 year old Puriri Tree with the step ladder. We were invited to climb it
but there were no takers!
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