A Wildlife Haven: Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Café

Getting There

• Car

  If you're traveling by car, start from the center of Palmerston North. Get onto the Manawatu River Bridge (State Highway 3) and head north. Continue on SH3 until you reach the intersection with State Highway 1. Merge onto SH1 and follow the signs towards Wellington. Take the exit for the Akatarawa Road (State Highway 2) towards Upper Hutt. Continue on Akatarawa Road for approximately 15 km. Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Café will be on your left at 2362 Akatarawa Road, Akatarawa Valley, Upper Hutt. Look for the entrance sign as you approach. Ensure to check your fuel before the trip as there are limited refueling options along this route.

• Public Transportation

  For those using public transportation, start your journey at Palmerston North's bus station. Take a bus heading towards Wellington. You will need to change buses in Upper Hutt. Once in Upper Hutt, use local transport options like a taxi or rideshare service to reach Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Café. The distance from the Upper Hutt bus terminal to the reserve is approximately 10 km, and it is advisable to pre-book a taxi for convenience. Be sure to check the bus schedules in advance as they may vary on weekends.

• Taxi or Rideshare

  If you prefer a more direct route from Upper Hutt, consider taking a taxi or using a rideshare service like Uber. From the Upper Hutt bus station, it will take around 15-20 minutes to reach Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Café. The approximate fare should be around NZD 25-35, depending on traffic conditions. This option is especially handy if you are traveling with family or a group.