The Te Raekaihau Reserve (The Headland that eats the Wind) is a headland that is located along the rugged south coast of New Zealand’s North Island. It sits over looking the Cook Straits between Lyall Bay and Houghton Bay.
In the terms of age,it is very young having been raised up by around 3 metres as recently as 1855 during the earthquake in The Waiarapa.
The reserve has always been popular for those wishing to enjoy the unspoilt area and is often used by people wanting to point or take photographs as its one few area within Wellington that is accessible but has very little light pollution. This low light pollution has made it possible for the Aurora Australis to be viewed from here on occasions.
The reserve gives excellent views of Lyall Bay,Houghton Bay,Island Bay as well as Red Rocks further along the coast.
Although small in area there are a number of tracks that wind there way from the coastal road up to View Road.
There are a number of steep although short sections but recently work has been completed to add steps which will make the area more accessible.
There is a great viewing area where you can sit and enjoy the views and to watch the world go by.
Over time a lot of work has gone on in the area to ensure that only native plants survive and with this goes the beauty that it deserves.
Random seats including a old blue metal ones are located around the area with some almost hidden.
In 2007 the Environmental Court turned down an application to build a Marine Conservation Centre on the Te Raekaihau Point which sits below the Reserve.
The area is also a great place to catch some stunning sunsets from either Princess Bay or at the top of the reserve.
The point was not in its original state as the parking area is a result from road buildings and other work.Whilst over the years non native plants invaded the area.
It was back on 2010 that Wellington council start to improve the area which included reducing access to cars,clearing the non native plants and replanting of over 2000 native plants.
Also an upgrade to the changing rooms at Princess Bay has been completed.
Most of the money for this came from The Plimmer Bequest.
View Te Raekaihau Reserve in a larger map
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