Last updated June 2026
Kew Bush is a 3.3-hectare remnant of lowland podocarp forest located on the grounds of Southland Hospital in Invercargill. The reserve protects kahikatea-dominated swamp forest typical of the Southland Plains and supports ongoing ecological restoration. Volunteers from the Friends of Kew Bush group, along with partners including Southern Institute of Technology students, maintain the site through monthly working bees focused on weed control, pest management and native planting. A short loop track and picnic area provide easy public access for walkers and families. The project began in 1999 and continues to receive community recognition, including an Environment Southland award for its restoration and education programme.
Practical Information
| Location | Southland Hospital grounds, Kew Road, Invercargill |
| Size | 3.3 hectares |
| Access | Open to the public; meet at picnic bench for working bees |
| Facilities | Short loop walking track, picnic area |
| Dogs | Allowed on leash |
| Entry fee | None |
| Restoration start | 1999 |
About Kew Bush
Kew Bush occupies a small but significant area of native forest within the Southland Hospital grounds in the suburb of Kew. It represents one of the last surviving examples of kahikatea podocarp forest on the Southland Plains, a habitat once widespread before widespread clearance for agriculture and urban development.
The reserve features a mix of mature kahikatea and other podocarp species alongside regenerating understorey plants. Its location on hospital land provides a green buffer and quiet natural space accessible to staff, patients and the wider Invercargill community.
Restoration work has focused on removing invasive weeds such as holly and controlling animal pests while replanting native species to strengthen the forest canopy and understorey. The Friends of Kew Bush group coordinates regular volunteer activities and works with the Southland District Health Board, QEII National Trust and educational institutions.
A short, easy loop track circles the bush, offering a gentle walk suitable for most visitors. The adjacent picnic area provides a simple spot for relaxation amid the trees.
Restoration and Community Involvement
Restoration at Kew Bush began in 1999 with early plantings of kahikatea. Since then, volunteers have carried out consistent weed and pest control alongside supplementary planting to improve ecological health.
The Friends of Kew Bush organise monthly working bees, usually on weekends. New volunteers are welcome and can contact the group via its Facebook page for current dates and tasks. Southern Institute of Technology environmental management students have contributed through projects that have earned regional awards.
Historical partners include the YMCA, South Invercargill Lions and Southland Community Nursery. Current collaborators also include the Southland District Health Board and QEII National Trust, which supports covenant protection of the remnant.
Visiting Kew Bush
The reserve is open at all times with no entry fee. Visitors can park near the hospital and follow signs or paths to the bush area. The loop track is flat and short, taking roughly 30 minutes to complete at an easy pace.
Dogs are permitted provided they remain on a leash. Visitors are asked to stay on the track, take all rubbish with them and respect the hospital setting by keeping noise to a minimum.
No formal guided tours operate at the site. Independent exploration is encouraged, and those interested in restoration work can join volunteer sessions instead.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers describe the short loop track as an easy, peaceful stroll through mature native trees right in the city. Many appreciate the quiet atmosphere and the chance to see kahikatea up close.
Local families note the convenient picnic area and flat path that suits children and casual visitors. Volunteers mention the rewarding sense of contributing to a long-running community project.
Where to Learn More
Southland Ecological Restoration Network: Project directory page with contact details, history and volunteer information for Kew Bush.
Southlandnz.com: Official tourism listing confirming size, location and forest type.
AllTrails: User reviews and trail details for the Kew Bush Loop Walk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Kew Bush located?
Kew Bush lies within the Southland Hospital grounds on Kew Road in Invercargill.
How big is Kew Bush?
The reserve covers 3.3 hectares of native podocarp forest.
Is there an entry fee?
No, access to Kew Bush is free and open to the public.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are permitted on the walking track provided they remain on a leash.
What facilities are available?
A short loop walking track and picnic area are provided.
Can I volunteer at Kew Bush?
Yes, the Friends of Kew Bush group welcomes volunteers for monthly working bees involving planting, weeding and pest control.
Are guided tours available?
No formal guided tours operate; visitors explore independently or join volunteer sessions.
When did restoration begin?
Active restoration of the forest remnant started in 1999.
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