Regional parks

Styx Mill Conservation Reserve

The Styx Mill Conservation Reserve is approximately 57 hectares in size, extending along the Styx River for nearly 1.6 km. The reserve forms part of the natural river corridor associated with the Styx River and provides a diversity of site conditions and opportunities.

The Styx Mill Conservation Reserve provides a great place for walks, picnics and the opportunity to enjoy nature not far from urban life.

History

When Maori lived in this locality the extensive wetlands and easy access to the sea made the Styx an important area for mahinga kai (food gathering) and for the cultivation and harvesting of flax.

During European settlement the area was used for a number of purposes including sheep farming. The river was used to drive waterwheels and provided an important source of power for sawmills, flaxmills, and flourmills.

The Styx Mill Conservation Reserve area came into public ownership in the 1970’s. Development began in the 1980’s. Today the community plays an important role in the future developments of the reserve. This is to ensure that this natural resource provides enjoyment for our community and its ecological values are retained and further enhanced.

Access

Entrances from Styx Mill Road and Husseys Road provide access to the reserve.