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
Kātipo Latrodectus katipo
Endemic. At risk-declining.
This close relative of the Australian Redback Spider L. hasselti is found nowhere else in the world. Not only that, its main habitat is restricted to dune systems throughout Aotearoa New Zealand making it a very specialised species in terms of habitat preferences.
Females are larger than males and sport a red strip with a whitish border. Males are much smaller and black..
Native dune vegetation, along with driftwood is their preferred habitat. The introduction of exotic species, particularly three species of spiders which predate on them, has had a detrimental effect, as had alteration and disturbance of their habitat making this a declining species thus warranting the Department of Conservation designating them as At risk - declining.
More information on this enigmatic species can be found on iNaturalist here
Seashore Wolf Spider Anoteropsis literalis
Endemic. At risk-naturally uncommon
Nearly thirty species of wolf spiders are found throughout Aotearoa New Zealand, many being widespread and inhabiting a wide variety of landscapes such as woodlands and gardens. Three species are recorded from the Estuary.
The Seashore Wolf Spider however, has more specialised requirements and is found in sandy areas around the coast. It is well adapted to life as a solitary hunter being extremely well camouflaged as can be seen in the adjoining photograph.
Adults are reported to be nocturnal but are easily disturbed while young are said to be active during the day.