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Pelorus Bridge Reserve

Thursday 11 October 2012, 2:10PM

By Marlborough District Council

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MARLBOROUGH

It is one hundred years this weekend since the last remnant of native forest at the confluence of the Pelorus and Rai rivers was declared a scenic reserve.

After European settlement of Nelson in 1842, a Māori route leading over Maungatapu Saddle and down into the Pelorus Valley was developed into a bridle track, colloquially known as ‘The Moketap’. By 1859 it was the route used by settlers and travellers coming from Nelson to the Wairau and in 1863 the first bridge over the Pelorus was built. Twenty-two years later a second bridge was built, opening up the route followed by today’s road over the Whangamoa and Rai Saddles.

Although most of the native lowland forest in the area was milled over a 25-year period, the mature trees in today’s reserve had survived as, earlier, this spot had been earmarked for a new township.

Those plans were delayed and, as appreciation of areas of natural values grew, in 1912 it was decided the area should be preserved. Since then, many individuals and local organisations have worked together to maintain and protect this reserve.

Today it is a beautiful scenic reserve bisected by the majestic Pelorus River with the most accessible piece of mature lowland forest in Marlborough. The stunning quality of the scenery was recognised by movie maker Peter Jackson who chose this spot to film one of the scenes of “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey”.

One hundred years on, Pelorus Bridge continues to be a favourite camping, recreation and picnic spot for locals and visitors alike.

October 13-14: Free guided walks and reduced camping rates at DOC’s Pelorus Bridge campsite.