Last updated July 2026
Opepe Scenic and Historic Reserve lies on State Highway 5, 17 km east of Taupō, offering two easy walking tracks through mature and regenerating native forest plus significant Land Wars history. The reserve protects a rare pocket of old-growth podocarp forest that survived the Taupō eruption of 186 AD and later milling pressures. It is also the site of a June 1869 engagement in which nine Bay of Plenty Cavalry soldiers were killed. Managed by the Department of Conservation, the reserve provides free, all-hours access with car parks on both sides of the highway, making it a convenient stop for travellers between Taupō and Napier.
Practical Information
| Location | State Highway 5 (Napier–Taupō Highway), 17 km east of Taupō |
| Entry | Free, open all hours |
| Northern Track | 1.5 km loop, 30–45 minutes, includes cemetery |
| Southern Track | 3 km loop, 1–1.5 hours (or 20-minute return to saw pit) |
| Grade | Easy — mostly flat, well-formed tracks |
| Size | 116 hectares |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
| Dogs | Permitted — must be under control at all times |
| Parking | Car parks on both sides of SH5 |
About Opepe Scenic and Historic Reserve
Opepe Scenic and Historic Reserve protects 116 hectares of native bush on the Napier–Taupō Highway. The northern side features mature podocarp forest with tall rimu and other ancient trees that escaped widespread destruction from the Taupō eruption and subsequent logging. This makes the reserve a notable spot for birdwatching in the central plateau region.
The southern side shows regenerating forest shaped by a brief but intense period of European settlement. Relics visible along the track include tōtara fencing posts, a bullock watering site, a water well, the site of the former Opepe township (which once had up to 120 residents), and the location of an Armed Constabulary stockade occupied from 1869 to 1885.
The reserve serves as an accessible day-trip destination or roadside stop for travellers driving between Taupō and Napier. Its combination of forest, history and easy tracks suits families and those seeking a short break from the highway.
The Northern Track
The northern car park gives access to a 1.5 km loop through mature podocarp forest. A short side track near the car park leads to the cemetery where the nine soldiers killed in the 1869 engagement are buried. Later burials of Opepe township residents and Armed Constabulary members also took place here.
The Southern Track
From the southern car park visitors can choose a 20-minute return walk to the old saw pit or complete the full 3 km loop. The loop passes through regenerating forest and past settlement relics including tōtara fencing, the bullock watering site and a water well. The route also crosses the original Napier–Taupō Road alignment.
Historical Significance
On 7 June 1869 Te Kooti and his party raided an encampment of Bay of Plenty Cavalry at Opepe. Nine soldiers were killed in the engagement, the most significant Land Wars event in the Taupō district. The cemetery on the northern side of the reserve marks their burial place.
What Visitors Often Say
A worthwhile short stop with impressive old-growth trees and tangible history. The tracks are easy and family-friendly, and the cemetery adds meaningful context to the 1869 events.
Visitors appreciate the contrast between the mature northern forest and the regenerating southern side, plus the convenience of parking right beside the highway for a quick or longer exploration.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation – Opepe walks: official track descriptions, distances, times and historical notes.
Love Taupō – Opepe Scenic and Historic Reserve: visitor overview of the tracks and reserve features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Opepe Scenic and Historic Reserve?
Seventeen kilometres east of Taupō on State Highway 5 (the Napier–Taupō Highway). Car parks sit on both sides of the road where the highway bisects the reserve.
How long are the walks at Opepe?
The northern loop is 1.5 km and takes 30–45 minutes. The southern loop is 3 km and takes 1–1.5 hours, with a shorter 20-minute option to the saw pit and back.
Are dogs allowed at Opepe Scenic and Historic Reserve?
Yes, dogs are permitted but must be kept under control at all times.
What happened at Opepe in 1869?
On 7 June 1869 Te Kooti’s party attacked a Bay of Plenty Cavalry encampment, killing nine soldiers. They are buried in the cemetery accessible from the northern track.
Is there an entry fee?
No, entry is free and the reserve is open at all hours.
What size is the reserve?
The reserve covers 116 hectares.
Is Opepe suitable as a day trip from Taupō?
Yes, it makes an easy half-day or roadside stop on the drive to or from Napier, with short tracks suitable for most visitors.
Who manages Opepe Scenic and Historic Reserve?
The Department of Conservation manages the reserve.
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