In between September and November good pasture growth is expected. This pattern of dry matter production imposes restrictions on the type of farming which is possible. The reserve is more suited to grazing by livestock than other types of farming. The choice of animals is limited to a degree by the numbers of people using the facility. Cattle for example might be carried at certain times but tend to destroy tracks and react badly to large numbers of people.
Sheep are more docile and can become used to people.
The defence scheme of New Zealand placed considerable emphasis on the Navy and Merchant Marine in both a defensive and offensive role, which, if it was to be played effectively, demanded that the home ports be guaranteed as secure. It was with the security of Lyttelton in mind that Godley Head battery and the other defensive works around Lyttelton and Banks Peninsula were constructed. In 1938 Major Edmey, of the British Army, was in New Zealand carrying out a survey of the defences of the major ports. In consequence of this visit it was decided to position a coastal defence battery on Godley Head, reserved for military purposes in 1851. Later that year work began on improving road access to the head.