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.
The Manawatū Estuary Trust enjoys giving people the opportunity to learn more about this amazing environ
Tētē-moroiti/Grey Teal Anas gracilis
Native. Not threatened.
The grey teal is seen on the river, mostly at dawn and dusk. It seeks refuge in the Estuary during the shooting season (starting in May) but at other times solitary pairs can be observed fairly close to the tide line.
The grey teal is a small dabbling duck with a dark crown and a pale throat and cheek. The eye is red and the beak and legs are black. It can be distinguished from the grey and mallard ducks by its lack of face stripes and its smaller size.
It's generally found on shallow fresh water with plenty of cover. It flies with a quick wingbeat. Although it isn't a gamebird, it is often mistaken for a grey duck or shoveler and shot.