The reserve contains a mosaic of forest communities, from manuka shrubland to mature mixed podocarp forest. Listen for the song of tui and piwakawaka (fantail) amongst the canopy of totara, matai, lemonwood, pokaka and occasional rimu.
The reserve provides opportunities for outdoor recreation such as walking and running on the formed tracks, taking your dog on a lead, picnicking and recreational activities on the mown picnic area in the south west part of the reserve.
This picnic area was formerly used as a Guides Southland camp site which has been removed. It is situated off Dunns Road and bookings are required for use of the area.
Facilities
Picnic table
Shelter
Walking track
Car park
Fully accessible Toilet at Dunns Road car park and toilet at picnic area
Dog Waste Bin
Walking Track
Duration: 45 minutes return
Distance: 2284m
The loop track through podocarp forest starts and finishes at the picnic shelter and car park off Dunns Road. It is an undulating track over a mixture of soil and boardwalk.
Dogs
Otatara Scenic Reserve is a dog on lead area.
