Coronation Scenic Reserve sits in the Western Hills west of central Whangārei, protecting a forested ridge that holds two Māori pā sites and more than a hundred storage pits from pre-European occupation. The main route through the reserve is the Frank Holman Memorial Track — a steep climb to a high ridge with views over the city, harbour, and surrounding hills. The reserve connects to Pukenui Forest, offering longer options for experienced walkers.
Practical Information
| Access | End of Russell Road, Whangārei (small car park) |
| Entry | Free |
| Open | Year-round, daylight hours |
| Main track | Frank Holman Memorial Track — steep climb with stairs, approx. 2 hours return |
| Longer options | Connecting tracks through to Pukenui/Western Hills Forest, up to 3 hours |
| Difficulty | Moderate to demanding — steep, stairs, muddy when wet |
| Managed by | Whangārei District Council |
About the Reserve
Coronation Scenic Reserve is part of the broader Western Hills forest system that wraps around the western edge of Whangārei. While less visited than Parihaka or AH Reed, it holds significant archaeological heritage — the ridge contains two Māori pā sites and over 100 storage pits, evidence of substantial pre-European occupation of the hillside. The forested ridge offered defensive advantages and access to resources from the surrounding valleys.
The Frank Holman Memorial Track begins at a small car park at the south end of Russell Road. The track is well marked from the car park and begins climbing steeply through bush with stairs. Within about 15 minutes, the first junction appears on the left. Continuing to the ridge brings you to a lookout point with views over Quarry Arts Centre, Maunga Parihaka, the city centre, and the harbour beyond.
The reserve connects to Pukenui/Western Hills Forest via ridge tracks. Experienced walkers can combine Coronation Reserve with a longer traverse through the Western Hills — allow up to 3 hours for the extended route.
Track Conditions
The tracks within the reserve are narrow and steep in places. After rain, sections can be muddy and slippery — tramping boots are recommended over trail shoes. The maintained track is in reasonable condition, though an unmaintained section with tree roots exists on the upper ridge. Take care in wet weather.
What visitors say
“A hidden gem in Whangarei — the pā site and storage pits on the ridge add real historical depth to the walk. The views from the top are impressive for the effort involved.” — Wilderness Magazine
“Steep and satisfying. It’s a proper bush climb — not a manicured path. Muddy in winter so dress accordingly.” — visitor review
Where to Learn More
Useful links
Whangārei District Council — Coronation Scenic Reserve — track and access information
Wilderness Magazine — Frank Holman Memorial Track — detailed route description and conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I park for Coronation Scenic Reserve?
There is a small car park at the end of Russell Road. This is the main access point for the Frank Holman Memorial Track.
How long is the Frank Holman Memorial Track?
Allow around 2 hours return for the main track to the ridge and back. Longer connecting routes through Pukenui Forest can extend the walk to 3 hours or more.
Is the track suitable for beginners?
The track is rated moderate to demanding. The steep gradient and stairs require a reasonable fitness level. Not suitable for pushchairs or very young children.
What are the pā sites in the reserve?
The ridge holds two Māori pā (fortified village) sites and over 100 storage pits from pre-European occupation. These are significant archaeological features — please do not disturb them.
Does the track connect to other reserves?
Yes — Coronation Reserve connects via ridge tracks to Pukenui/Western Hills Forest, allowing longer traverses for experienced walkers.
Is the track marked?
The main Frank Holman Memorial Track is clearly marked from the car park. Check with WDC for current conditions on connecting routes before attempting longer traverses.
Coronation Scenic Reserve is part of Whangārei’s Western Hills forest system — see the Whangārei parks and reserves guide for more. Pukenui/Western Hills Forest connects directly from the reserve’s ridge tracks.