Last updated July 2026
Coronation Scenic Reserve protects a bush-clad ridge in Whangārei’s Western Hills, part of the larger Pukenui Forest. The reserve preserves two Māori pā sites and more than 100 storage pits from pre-European times, along with mature native trees and city views. Its main route, the Frank Holman Memorial Track, offers a steep Grade 3 climb with rewarding ridge lookouts. Multiple access points link the reserve to nearby attractions including the Quarry Arts Centre and Quarry Gardens. Dogs are prohibited to protect the resident North Island brown kiwi population.
Practical Information
| Access | Russell Road (southern end), Kauika Road West, Selwyn Avenue (Quarry Arts Centre), Quarry Gardens |
| Entry | Free |
| Open | Year-round, daylight hours |
| Main track | Frank Holman Memorial Track — 3.2 km one-way, 90 minutes, Grade 3, steep inclines |
| Other tracks | Selwyn Avenue link (680 m, 30 min), Quarry Gardens link (1 km, 1 hour) |
| Dogs | Prohibited (kiwi habitat) |
| Managed by | Whangārei District Council |
About the Reserve
Coronation Scenic Reserve was purchased by the Borough of Whangārei in 1912 to mark the coronation of King George V. It forms part of the Western Hills forest network and contains significant archaeological features, including two Māori pā sites and over 100 storage pits. Gold mining occurred nearby in the 1870s but proved uneconomic. The reserve offers peaceful native bush with impressive mature trees and expansive views across Whangārei city and harbour.
The Frank Holman Memorial Track starts from Russell Road or Kauika Road and climbs steeply through stands of mature native trees, nikau groves and a pā site. Track improvements in 2022 included new metal surfacing, boxed steps and removal of hazardous trees. From the Kauika Road end, a shorter circular option leads to a city lookout.
Additional links connect to the Quarry Arts Centre via the Selwyn Avenue track and to the Quarry Gardens. These routes feature steps, boardwalks and an optional detour to another pā site. The reserve’s location next to Western Hills Drive makes it easily reachable from central Whangārei.
Track Conditions and Safety
Tracks are narrow with steep sections and can become slippery after rain. Tramping boots are recommended. The main Frank Holman track is well maintained, though users should check current conditions with the council before longer traverses. Known hazards on council reserves are listed on the Whangārei District Council website.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers appreciate the combination of historical pā sites, mature forest and city views reached after a solid climb. Many note the track’s steepness and recommend sturdy footwear, especially in wet conditions.
Visitors describe the reserve as a peaceful local gem with interesting archaeology and good connections to other Western Hills tracks. The prohibition on dogs is respected to protect kiwi.
Where to Learn More
Whangārei District Council — Coronation Scenic Reserve: official track descriptions, maps, parking and access details.
Coronation Reserve tracks map (PDF): detailed map of all routes and access points.
Whangārei District Council dog policy: rules confirming dogs are prohibited in the reserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the main car park for Coronation Scenic Reserve?
Multiple access points exist, including the southern end of Russell Road, Kauika Road West, Selwyn Avenue near the Quarry Arts Centre, and the Quarry Gardens.
How long is the Frank Holman Memorial Track?
The track is 3.2 km one-way and takes approximately 90 minutes. Return or loop options vary from 2–3 hours depending on the route chosen.
Are dogs allowed in the reserve?
No, dogs are prohibited to protect the North Island brown kiwi that live in the reserve.
What historical features are in the reserve?
The ridge contains two Māori pā sites and more than 100 storage pits. Gold mining occurred nearby in the 1870s.
Does the reserve connect to other areas?
Yes, tracks link to Pukenui Forest, the Quarry Arts Centre and Whangārei Quarry Gardens.
What is the track grade and difficulty?
The main tracks are Grade 3, featuring steep inclines, steps and boardwalks. They suit people with reasonable fitness.
When was the reserve established?
The land was purchased in 1912 by the Borough of Whangārei to commemorate the coronation of King George V.
Are there any recent track improvements?
Yes, the Frank Holman track received upgrades in 2022 including new surfacing, steps and hazard tree removal.
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