Meola Reef Reserve

A large area covering approximately 15 hectares, a nature reserve of geological interest. It is the longest lava flow in the Auckland volcanic field. Contains natural mangroves and salt marsh on the landward end and unique reef habitat in the Waitemata Harbour.

Jaggers bush borders Westmere above Seddons Fields, and the walk through from Motions Road to Meola Road takes about 10 mins. The bush track en route to the reef is intersected by Meola Road. Take care when crossing this busy road. Jaggers Bush is in Motions Road alongside Seddon Fields down the steep hill from the café, shops and gallery at the junction of Old Mill Road and Garnet Road. The pathway through bush follows the edge of a small stream. The first side path on your right leads into Savage Street.

If you have parked by the café in Old Mill Road, remember this bush track to Savage Street is an easier return route then back up Motions Road.The path leads to the edge of Seddon Fields and on to Meola Road. Turn left and walk along to the nearest entrance to Meola Reef reserve. Take care crossing. A wide path leads you out onto the reef below farmland and alongside the mangroves.

The grass track is flat and well-maintained, with abundant evidence of the replanting programme with rushes and mangroves between you and the creek. Across Motions Road and up to your right are some of the best-sited homes in the suburb of Westmere. About 15 mins easy walking the track comes to a wider space at the edge of the reef with a picnic table.

In this section of the reef there are salt marsh and salt meadows as well as extensive mangroves typical of this sort of environment found around sheltered harbour shores in Auckland.