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There's plenty to see and do at the estuary.
The estuary walkway provides beautiful views, and there are signs along the way providing information about some of the birds you might see.
There is a lot of interesting wildlife at the estuary. As well as birds, the estuary is also home to some interesting plants and is an important habitat for native fish.
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The Manawatū Estuary Trust enjoys giving people the opportunity to learn more about this amazing environ
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Papangaio Te Wharangi Manawatū Estuary
Information on this website is found by clicking on related pictures and links.
The Manawatū Estuary Trust is a charitable Trust that was formed in 2001 by members of The Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society of New Zealand, Inc. and The Ornithological Society of New Zealand. The Trust is dedicated to ensuring sustainable and wise management of the Manawatū Estuary, which is a very important habitat for native wildlife. The Trust now has numerous members, including wildlife tour groups, schools, organisations and individuals.
The Manawatū Estuary Trust works closely with the Department of Conservation, New Zealand Landcare Trust, Horizons Regional Council, Horowhenua District Council and Wildlife Foxton Trust, which at the moment helps provide the Trust with technical expertise. The Manawatū Estuary Trust also has long standing relationships with academics from Massey University.
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The Trust has accepted responsibility for carrying out various tasks, such as public education, advocacy, assisting in the preparation of management plans, coordination between public authorities, interest groups and the community, fundraising and construction of information signs.
Location
The Manawatū Estuary lies at the mouth of the Manawatū River on the west coast of the lower North Island of Aotearoa New Zealand, beside the settlement of Foxton Beach.
Foxton Beach is 5km west of Foxton township, 20km north of Levin, and 30km south of Bulls. From Palmerston North it takes half an hour to drive to Foxton Beach; from Wellington about two hours.
State Highway 1 will take you to Foxton, from which it is easy to get to Foxton Beach.
Please be aware of the following when visiting the Estuary.
Dogs are not allowed on the bird sanctuary. Dogs can scare the birds that use the estuary for feeding and roosting. Please keep your dog(s) on a lead when exploring the estuary area outside the bird sanctuary.
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Vehicles are not allowed on the bird sanctuary. However, vehicle access is permitted on the beach, as well as on the estuary shore near the river mouth. Most motorists are very considerate, but it is important to be aware of moving vehicles and to respect sensitive areas such as the dunes which contain many rare plants and should not be driven over.
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The Manawatū Estuary is a tidal area. When exploring the environment, remember to be aware of the incoming tide. Check tide tables if spending time on the beach or other tidal areas and allow plenty of time and a clear pathway to safety.
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The estuary can experience strong winds and inclement weather at times so please check conditions before travelling and be aware that they can change quickly with little notice.