Bushy Park Tarapuruhi

At Bushy Park Tarapuruhi, 25 kilometres from Whanganui on Rangitatau East Road, you will find lush lowland forest, and encounter rare native bird species such as North Island robin, saddlebacks and hihi.

Bushy Park was bequeathed to Forest and Bird by G.F. Moore in 1962 and is cared for by a trust of volunteers.

There are 3.4 kilometres of metalled walking tracks through the forest and a large northern rata named Ratanui, estimated to be between 500 and 1,000 years old, and believed to be the largest rata tree in the southern hemisphere.

The sanctuary is free to visit and can be accessed during daylight hours.

Bushy Park Sanctuary also has a 22-room Edwardian-era homestead with accommodation available.