Jaggers Bush – Priotised Reserve for Ecological Restoration

Nestled between the bustling suburbs of Westmere and Western Springs Football clubs, Seddon Fields is Jaggers Bush, a narrow but significant strip of coastal broadleaf forest. This reserve offers a quiet green space for native wildlife, playing an important role in the ecological network of the area.

Where is it?

Jaggers Bush can be accessed from Savage Street, Notley Street, and Meola Road, making it easily accessible for local residents – who know where it is

The signage is “subtle” to non existent. We have contacted the Community Ranger to see if the signage can be improved so people can enjoy this lovely space.

There is no sign at all on the “Zoo side” If you see gate 3, just past Western Springs College – look for a path across the road. You made it!

On the Meola Rd side, if you are coming down the steep hill, on the left, before Seddon Fields.

Look for this sign.  Let’s see if we can get this updated…. to Auckland Council!

A Glimpse into the Past

While specific historical records solely focusing on Jaggers Bush are limited, the land it occupies shares a broader history with the surrounding areas. The Auckland isthmus, formed by volcanic activity, was once covered in unique lava rock forests. These ecosystems, characterised by native trees and shrubs growing amongst jagged volcanic boulders, are now critically endangered.

The land around Jaggers Bush has also seen human activity over centuries. Māori utilised the coastal resources for food and materials. Later, with European settlement, the area transitioned to farming and eventually faced the pressures of urbanisation. Notably, Meola Reef, over the road was used as a landfill site until the 1970’s

Why the Name?

Historical records mention a Frank Jagger and Company tannery in the Western Springs area around the turn of the 20th century. While a direct link between this company and the naming of Jaggers Bush is not explicitly documented, it remains a possibility, especially considering the reserve’s location near Old Mill Road.

A Haven for Biodiversity

Despite its urban setting and past influences, Jaggers Bush is recognised by Auckland Council as a Significant Ecological Area (SEA). This designation highlights its importance for indigenous flora and fauna. The reserve provides a habitat for a variety of native birds. Spend some quiet time there and you can see tūī, pīwakawaka , riroriro, kōtare, warou and kererū visits. At night the calls of the rūrū can be heard.

Jaggers Bush also forms part of a crucial ecological corridor connecting Western Springs Park, Seddon Fields, and Meola Reef, facilitating the movement of wildlife across the urban landscape towards the Waitematā Harbour.

Jaggers Bush connects to the Weona-Westmere Path, allowing for longer walks along the coast. The reserve is also close to Western Springs Park and Meola Reef, offering further opportunities for exploration.

Ongoing Efforts for Ecological Restoration

Auckland Council has recognised Jaggers Bush as an important park for ecological restoration and it is at the highest priority level.

A short walk though the Reserve – It’s easy to see how well cared for Jaggers Park is.

• Predator Control: Maintaining traplines to reduce populations of pests
• Weed Management: Regular weeding has removed invasive plants which compete with native plants
• Habitat Enhancement: Native plantings to increase biodiversity and provide better habitat for insects and birds
• Pathway Improvements: The new path was completed in May 2025.