VEHICLE IN DUNES Our dunes and the areas between them are a delicate ecosystem. They are vital in helping to protect the estuary, its natural wildlife and the township, from the effects of weather events, especially in this age of climatic change. Vehicles and trailbikes damage this delicate environment. They should not be there, and this is clearly indicated by signs and supported by the Public Places Bylaw . Please report any vehicles or trailbikes in the dune environment, or if they are behaving dangerously anywhere. For dangerous or unsociable behaviour – Ring 111 For other events – make a report Here's what to do to make a report: Take photos if safe to do so, try to get at least some of the number plate if there is one. Most important: Note the date and time and location. Either email all that along with a brief description of the incident and your contact details to foxtonandbeach@cpnz.org.nz Or Fill in our form either by hand on a printed form or on your computer. Click on thumbnail opposite to download form. Or get it from Wildlife Foxton Trust at 207 Seabury Avenue, Foxton Beach. Or email ramsarfoxtonbeach@gmail.com or phone 022-684-9813 and ask for it electronically or to be popped in your letterbox. A recent news item on safety along Sunset Walk can be found via link below https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/07/08/residents-demand-safety-changes-for-foxton-beach-walkway/ LITERATURE Report and Recommendations of the Vehicles National Workshop. 12th October 2005. Executive Summary RUBBISH DUMPING The dumping of rubbish on the beach and in the dunes is a major on-going problem and one that needs addressing. It is not just general littering which a number of visitors to the estuary, both local and from out of town, pick up and dispose of in the appropriate manner but the area is used for burning stolen vehicles and large amounts of household material. It is also frequently used for dumping garden waste which, apart from being unsightly helps to introduce and spread new pest plant species in an area which has some unique endemic plant species, several of which are on the threatened list.

Over time this section will include content that will point readers to areas of research that has either been completed or projects that are in progress. It will also include sections on how and where to record sightings and areas where identification of species can be found or questions asked. This page is still under development but please feel free to contact the developer via the submission form under the Support MET tab with any additional groups or sites that you feel should be included. With global warming and the more expansive movements of some animals and plants that seems to be occurring, recording programs which, at the moment seem not to be relevant to the area are included as they may be in the future, bearing in mind that in the past couple of years Sea Turtles and Sea Snakes have been found on local beaches and in December 2023 a Hector's/Maui Dolphin was seen our coast. RECORDING SITES Links are included but may take on the form of a logo rather than the standard method adopted throughout the rest of the website. Registration is required and once this is done, the easiest way to get started is to click on the submit button, then using the "find it on a map" section, locate the recording site and give it a name. This will then be registered and can be found from your drop-down list on that page. Press continue and what follows is self-explanatory. This is a global database and can be used to enter sightings from anywhere in the world, also allowing species to be searched for with location lists giving an idea of what species.are in an area that may be of interest. Full user tutorial . Again, this is a global database in which records can be entered from anywhere in the world. It also allows you to search for species and location lists. Registration is required but is fairly straight forward. Once done, open site and click add observation and follow instructions, Once this is done entries can be made, ideally with a photograph as this then allows verification of the species if needed. Add as much information as possible. The estuary is an important area for migratory birds and provides excellent opportunities to observe marked individuals. Over many years, significant research has been carried out on these global travellers, some of which may cover more than one hundred thousand kilometres in their lifetime. Although newer tracking technologies are now available, they are not suitable for all species or marking projects. Consequently, traditional marking methods continue to play an important role. For many years, birds have been fitted with metal bands engraved with a unique identification number and linked to the NZ National Bird Banding Scheme (NZNBBS) - in Aotearoa New Zealand, this is managed by the Wildlife Marking Office, Department of Conservation (DOC). In addition, coloured leg bands are also used. Unlike metal bands, which usually require the bird to be recaptured for accurate reading, colour bands can often be identified from a distance in the field. Observations of these marked birds can be reported to the NZNBBS using the sightings form, which explains how to correctly record band combinations and provides all required details. If possible, please take a photograph of any marked bird you observe and submit it along with your completed sighting report. The database has accumulated over 2 million bird records (first marking and resighting records) and the estuary is an ideal place to contribute to this dataset. After a major weather event the group of animals most likely to be affected are sea birds, species that live most of their lives on the open ocean, only coming ashore to breed. Individuals can be washed up on beaches and although, most are dead, they can still provide valuable data so please record fatalities via Seabird Beach Patrol Scheme. Identification can, in some case, be made by shape of the bill which is quite distinctive in many species. Thank to Birds NZ four identification cards ( no.1 no.2 no.3 no.4 ) are available here. These can be downloaded and laminated or photographs taken for later reference but please record. If a band is present please record on the form listed above. A tagging program operates for New Zealand Sea Lions and while they are mostly restricted to the lower South Island they are becoming more numerous with reports of individuals wandering further afield so keep an eye out for any plastic flipper tags if you are lucky enough to see one. Other means of tracking are employed but are used only by professionals with the right equipment. Remember the safety guidelines of not approaching closer than 10 m but photographs can be taken and enlarged on a computer which will help with reading the number. Details can be recorded on Sea Lion Tags which also has heaps of other interesting information. The Sea Lion Trust is also a good general website as is the SeaSpotted website for a downloadable reporting App. ARDS is the Amphibian and Reptile Distribution Scheme administered by DoC to plot distribution and occurrence of these species that are reported from Aotearoa New Zealand. Frogs (endemic and introduced), Geckos, Skinks, Tuatara, Sea Snakes and Sea Turtles are included, and data can be found on the atlas via a drop-down list of over a hundred species with both common and scientific names given for easy location. Each species contains data and a map, which unfortunately gives a location and not actual sites where recorded. Difficult with common species but for sparsely recorded species such as Sea Snakes and Sea Turtles specific locations would have been good. A recording form for observations is given here . Found exclusively in certain coastal waters around the North Island of Aotearoa New Zealand, Māui Dolphin is the world's smallest and rarest dolphin, with an estimated 65 individuals left in the wild. Hector's Dolphin is very similar and found mainly around the South Island with a few stragglers making it further north. Both being the only dolphins in Aotearoa New Zealand to have a rounded dorsal fin so both are easily identifiable as a species and because of their rarity any sightings should be recorded. This can be done using a link via this page which also contains other valuable information and links. See Mammals for reporting other whale and dolphin sightings. Visit the SeaSpotter website for a downloadable reporting App. FACEBOOK GROUPS Many Facebook groups have been set up to cover a wide range of subjects, mainly on a national basis but are included because they could be relevant to the area and are a useful platform to upload photographs onto if you want an identification. Likewise, many national conservation organisations have posts which are also worth seeing. As such, listed below are a number of sites but please use the search tool on Facebook to check them out - some you need to join before being able to open but each will explain. None are included as links as an extra security safeguard, and it is up to the individual to make the choice. Manawatū Estuary Trust Wildlife Foxton Trust Forest and Bird New Zealand Native Orchids New Zealand Bird Identification Insects and Invertebrates of New Zealand Native Plants of Aotearoa (New Zealand) New Zealand Garden Bird Survey New Zealand Lizard Identification Mushrooms of New Zealand New Zealand Birders Wildlife of New Zealand The New Zealand Epiphyte Network Fernbirds Orca Watch New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority NZ Cetacean Spotting NZ - Whale and Dolphin Watch New Zealand Bittern Conservation New Zealand Nature New Zealand Whale and Dolphin Watch - Wellington Godwits New Zealand Moths and Butterflies of NZ Trust species list FOXTON BEACH/ESTUARY SPECIES LIST Most records that are available just give Foxton Beach as a location but an iNaturalist Manawatū Estuary Ramsar site has been set up to record species with all having at least one photograph to identify it. The full Excel spreadsheet list has been split and is now linked via the introduction page.to that sections species list but please bare in mind that they are far from complete and still a work in progress that needs peer reviewing. It is included as an excel file for people to have a look at and get an idea of how valuable an area this is. There are notations in some area for further research which will be followed up at some point. There are still species to classify correctly (and to add) and arrange so please take at face value but contact me via the form under the Support MET tab if you have any comments. Up-dates will be added as and when but feel free to download.

Ramsar In 2004 the Manawatū Estuary Trust supported the Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society’s (now Forest and Bird) application to list the Manawatū Estuary under the Ramsar Convention. The Ramsar Convention is a treaty signed by over 150 countries wherein they agree to be part of international cooperation regarding the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands. Original application document Map depicting Ramsar boundary In July 2005, the Manawatū Estuary was listed under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands as a Wetland of International Importance (Ramsar site no. 1491). The map opposite outlines the extent of the site but exact borders remain fluid because of environmental and other factors. Dotted lines represent the Ramsar site but other area are included and are noted in the legend. Achieving Ramsar status was a large step forward towards protecting the Manawatū Estuary for the future and although many people and organisations contributed to its Ramsar status, it was one person in particular, Joan Leckie, that was the main driving force behind that achievement, and her enthusiasm and passion can't be over-estimated. In the Winter 2025 issue of Forest and Bird Magazine there is an article on Joan and coverage of the unveiling of the 2025-35 Plan. At the time of its designation as a Ramsar site, Aotearoa New Zealand had only 5 throughout the country but with this and a subsequent one in the Wairarapa there are now seven, details of which are given via a link at the bottom of this page. An excellent introduction to this special site has been produced by Arnim Littek and is available to view and download by clicking the picture opposite. The Manawatū Estuary Ramsar site borders the townships of Foxton and Foxton Beach in close proximity, with all of the advantages and disadvantages this brings. At only 200 hectares it is the smallest of Aotearoa New Zealand's seven Ramsar sites but is unique in the fact that the townships of Foxton and Foxton Beach are in such close proximity with all the problems that may arise from this. The Manawatū Estuary Management Team (MEMT) have formal meetings every six months with informal gatherings in-between to update progress on tasks discussed at the formal meetings plus any other work people are doing that is associated with the area. These comprise of representatives from the three statutory agencies, being the Department of Conservation, Horizons Regional Council and Horowhenua District Council, with local iwi, Forest and Bird, Manawatu Estuary Trust and Wildlife Foxton Trust plus other interested local residents from within the region. For those wanting to know more about this special place, a number of documents are produced in the form of Estuary Management Plans and Ramsar Site Information Sheets (RIS). In November 2024 the first newsletter produced by the Manawatū Estuary Management Team became available and listed below, along with subsequent issues. Links to these, along with other documents which may be of interest are listed below. Ramsar Information Sheets (RIS) are published periodically to document changes made to any aspect of the area. Each contain much information about the estuary and are listed below. May 2005. The original RIS. April 2023. Current update on Ramsar Website. There have been two complete Management Plans produced and a third is currently being worked on which will be more comprehensive in nature. An incomplete attempted at another plan (2013-2023) is also linked below for reference. The original 2007-2012 plan is available here . A plan was started but remained unfinished. It aimed to cover 2013-2023 is available here for reference only. The current plan for 2015-2025 is available here with the final draft and associated information for the 2025-2035 plan available here . A brief introduction to the Manawatū Estuary is given on the Ramsar Information page with additional references to research previously undertaken. A map is also included. In addition, a report by the Department of Conservation is submitted to the triennial (three yearly) Conference of Parties (COP), the latest report (15) is linked here . Click English link from opened page. Each prospective Ramsar wetland site has to fit a set of criteria to be designated, and these guidelines are set out in detail in the guide produced by the Department of Conservation in their National Guidelines for the Assessment of Potential Ramsar Wetlands in New Zealand. More detailed information on Ramsar and its work can be had from their Website. Information and location, including map, of all seven Ramsar sites in Aotearoa New Zealand can be viewed here . Click on locator tab to see more information on each site. Historically, many of the references to species recorded from the area refer to either Foxton Beach or Manawatū Estuary without specific reference to the Ramsar Site. A specific site on iNaturalist is now available and species are entered automatically Manawatu Estuary Ramsar Site NZ Ramsar Monument on the esplanade by the wharf and boating club Depicted on this stone monument is Papa Ngaio, the taniwha (water guardian). Resembling a tuna (eel) it is said to have only one eye and is charged with keeping the river clean. It is a fitting symbol of what people hope for the future of the river and estuary. Ramsar-WhyWhatHow-Matarikiv-1.0 Matariki hui

Pest Fauna It is a well-known fact that Aotearoa New Zealand has a disproportionate number of introduced animal species, many of which are detrimental to the survival of native wildlife. Many species, such as rodents (rats and mice) and mustelids (weasels, stoats and ferrets) are well documented and present around this area. This page will introduce some of these species, plus others that are not so well known. Brief introductions and a list of organisations where these can be reported will be included, as are some control methods. iNaturalist has a list of exotic species for the Ramsar site but this is a little vague in terms of information. Best to search for the individual species in this link . Before commencing any trapping of Mustelids, Rats or Possums please consult Department of Conservation booklet Practical Guide to Trapping 3rd edition . One of the most comprehensive coverages of what is required to start and expand a successful pest control program is contained in a publication by Predator Free Miramar and titled How to kill rats and engage a community . It contains a detailed account of what is needed from trap building to engaging public and everything else in-between. It is a must read. Predator Free NZ produces a series of excellent guides on the main predator species which can be viewed via this series of links. Ferret , Weasel , Stoat , Ship Rat , Norway Rat and Possum . Below are listed three of the best guides to mammalian pest control. All slightly different - follow the basics but adapt to your own personal situation as required. Foxton Beach Predator Trapping Results With funding and assistance from Horizons Regional Council and Predator Free NZ, Wildlife Foxton Trust with the help of numerous enthusiastic volunteers administer the trapping program in the Foxton Beach area covering the estuary, woodland, farmland and around the township. Results of all this effort is beginning to show as can be seen from the graph below produced by the Traps NZ site, where all our catch details are entered. Various traps are available, on loan, from Wildlife Foxton Trust. Sections below, in time, will not only cover many of the dominant and well known species but some of the lesser known types which prey on some of Aotearoa New Zealand's other unique wildlife. possum MUSTELIDS Three species make up this most lethal suite of introduced predators that Aotearoa New Zealand has. Weasel, Stoat and Ferret are capable killers being able to decimate entire populations of native species from areas that are not protected with an eradication program. Traps and boxes can be purchased as a complete unit or separately. Boxes for these traps have a design which must be followed. The DoC 250 for stoats and ferrets and DoC 200 for weasels are the industry standard and design details can be found in this handy guide. More information is available in the three guides listed above. The video opposite was taken by Cleland Wallace for which we acknowledge his permission to use. This photograph is of a ferret and was taken on the recent Bittern Muster (survey) at Lake Omanu. Being the domesticated form of the Polecat, they tend to be more confiding than the other two species. Efforts are underway to start a trapping program in the area, an important habitat for many species of birds. Brush-tailed Possum Trichosurus vulpecula This serious pest of forests and gardens was introduced to Aotearoa New Zealand with a view to creating a fur trade. The first, in 1837 was unsuccessful but it was the 1858 attempt which started the colonisation of this destructive pest. While some possum fur is still used, usually combined with wool to give extra strength, it is the side effect that is being felt now. Possums are now trapped extensively to try to eradicate them. Wildlife Foxton Trust has a trap library and loan out possum specific traps, with instructions for use in the Foxton Beach area. Enquiries via their website wildlifefoxton.org BLACK AND YELLOW STRIPEY STINGY THINGS Wasps are in the same order as bees and ants and while most live solitary lives, it is the social wasps that are a real pest, both to native wildlife and to humans and their activities. German wasps are nuisance at certain times of the year especially when outdoor eating is involved. In terms of their pest status the least troublesome to humans but to native invertebrates they are a real problem are the paper wasps, especially the Asian Polistes chinensis which is particularly abundant in this area, building their nests in a variety of locations including guttering, bushes and in log piles. They are not aggressive and their stings are reputed to be not that painful. They take a heavy toll on native insects and their nests should be destroyed as soon as they are found. Normally only small structures they can sometimes be large. First spray with a commercial fly spray and when there is no sign of wasps in the vicinity, destroy nests which will kill any remaining pupae. If Monarch Butterflies breed in your garden there will be a nest close-by and would be worth checking as these can take a heavy toll. Perhaps the most familiar of the wasps are the two species of Vespula , those annoying species of the summer months. Depending on several factors both the German V. germanica and Common V. vulgaris can be quite abundant some years. Unlike the paper wasps, both these species build nests where the egg chambers are enclosed with an outer covering with one or more entrance hole. They can be situated underground, in wall cavities or in buildings. Being stung by an individual can not only be very painful but dangerous if allergic, often warenting a visit to hospital Nests if discovered should not be approached as they are very aggressive creatures. Destruction should only be done by a professional pest control person, but there are traps and baits available for use away from nests to attract them. Details of of one of the most effective is given below for control of Hornets A recent addition to the list of invasive species is the Yellow-legged Hornet Vespa velutina. This is potentially a very destructive species and has caused havoc with bee populations in an increasing number of countries as it is a very aggressive predator, attacking bee hives. Populations are spreading worldwide with the first record for Aotearoa New Zealand in 2025. Immediately, MPI/Biosecurity developed a strategy to control this pest and help contain and ultimately eliminate the threat. Since the initial sighting, a total of 77 queens and 132 have been destroyed as of early April 2026. There is a wealth of information on the MPI/Biosecurity website which covers all aspects associated with what is being done to help eradicate Yellow-legged Hornets, including what to look out for and where to report possible sightings. An information leaflet is available to download at MPI documents CONTROL German and Common Wasps and Yellow-legged Hornets, besides being a threat to native species are potentially a threat to humans because of their sting. Nests of all species need to be reported to the appropriate authority for elimination and not to be attempted by untrained individuals. However, measures can be taken by individuals to protect personal space by using different types of bait containers and lures with several different types are available. The main consideration is bycatch, species for which bait and equipment is not intended. Sweet sugary liquids in homemade dispensers is not ideal. Best to use a specific wasp attractant which is of low risk to bees and which is placed in a suitable which does not allow easy access to the bait. One of the best is the dome-shaped container which holds the bait. Trials have been held over a few years by the Department of Conservation with a new bait, developed by Merchento called Vespex . It has proved very effective in controlling both wasps and hornets which take it back to the nest resulting in the killing of the whole colony. Check out the link above for more details. Lester, P. 2018. The Vulgar Wasp: The Story of a Ruthless Invader and Ingenious Predator. Victoria University Press. Lester, P. 2022. The Management of Invasive Species, Pests and Diseases in New Zealand. Te Herenga Waka University Press.

IN-PAGE INDEX Marram Red-purple Ragwort Tree Lupin Moundlily Yucca Tree Mallow Poplar Cape Spurge Agapanthus Everlasting Pea Wilding Pine Karo INVASIVE SPECIES Marram Karaihe/European Marram Grass Calamagrostris arenaria Introduced. Not assessed. Probably the worst pest species we have in the dune system at Foxton Beach. It wasn’t always thought to be and had previously been widely planted as a means of stabilising sand erosion . A deep-rooted species which creates high dunes through its deep penetrating roots. Unfortunately, as can be seen in the photograph opposite, these can cause the dune to collapse. The planting of native sand-binders such as Pingao and Spinifex has been undertaken at the dunes for several years now, and in time, will hopefully prove to be a better solution than Marram. It has been proven that seed can remain viable for over 20 years at up to depths of 4 m of sand. Wind erosion could bring these to the surface at a future date. View article abstract here . nzpcn-Marram Grass Red-purple Ragwort Red-purple Ragwort Senecio elegans Introduced. Not assessed. This is a species that originated from South Africa with sand dunes its favoured habitat and, if left unchecked can quickly colonise new areas. They are controlled in the managed area of the dune garden but are found in areas bordering the estuary and should be pulled up, ensuring the basal leaves are removed. It is a very colourful plant and one that is grown in gardens and while not encouraged it is recommended to remove developing seed heads once flowering is finished. They produce an incredible number of seeds which is wind dispersed, thus quickly establishing new areas. Some species can cover large areas, and this can be seen on parts of Transmission Gully with Pink Ragwort. Some species can also be poisonous to stock. Weedbusters-Red-purple Ragwort iNaturalist-Red-purple Ragwort Tree Lupin Tree Lupin Lupinus arboreus Introduced. Not assessed Originating from California, it is a common weed in the area and swathes of yellow in the distance are most likely to be this species. A fairly easy plant to distinguish as a seedling because of its distinctive leaves, it should be pulled up before they become established. Once plants mature and seed, they have the potential to become established quite quickly as seed pods split explosively to disperse seeds which are also spread by water. These tall, up to 2.5 m plants, soon shade out any natives and allow other shade tolerant weedy species to colonise. Controlled in parts of the dune garden but should be pulled up if seen elsewhere. It is also tolerant of wind and cold. Weedbusters-Tree Lupin Moundlily Yucca Moundlily Yucca Yucca gloriosa Introduced. Not assessed. This is a very impressive species that is widely cultivated because of its rather exotic appearance. The only problem is that it can quite often outgrow its welcome and because of this is removed and frequently dumped in the vicinity of the estuary from where some make their way into the sand dunes. The plant itself is impressive with its long narrow, bright green leaves which can reach 50 cm and terminate with a sharp spike. It is at its most spectacular when it blooms, with the bell-shaped, white flowers that can sometimes be tinged with pink. These are produced on a stem which can be up to 2.5 m tall. The elongated berry can be up 7 cm and produce numerous seeds. Once they get to this stage and the dispersed seeds start to germinate this is when the serious problems start. Seeds can also be water dispersed. NZPCN-Moundlily Yucca Tree Mallow Tree Mallow Malva arborea Introduced. Not assessed. This is a species that is found in coastal regions in its natural distribution of Western Europe, extending as far as Libya. Like many pest species they are quite pretty which is a downfall in countries outside of its natural distribution making it a good subject for horticulture. It is fast growing and is subsequently pruned or removed completely while still in seed. Seed is reputed to be very resilient to salt water and can remain viable for many years in quite saline conditions. Because of its mobility and tolerance of sea water it has become quite a serious pest on numerous seabird islands around the world. Aiding its survival is its reputed ability to excrete salt through glands on its leaves. Has the potential pest species in this area. iNaturalist-Tree Mallow Poplar Pāpāra/White Poplar Populus alba Introduced. Not assessed. This pest species became naturalised in Aotearoa New Zealand in 1904 and has since became a serious problem as it spread to many areas. It is also a pest species in many areas outside of its natural distribution of the Northern Hemisphere. At the estuary it is growing extensively on both sides of Pinewood Road just on the approach the beach. Towards the end of 2024, with generous funding from Horizons Regional Council, Kaitiaki o Ngahere have been engaged in some poplar clearance. An example of their efforts can be seen from the photograph opposite. Apart from crowding out other plants, it quickly spreads by producing suckers from lateral roots which can extend as much as 30 m from the main stem, throwing up new shoots to quickly form dense clumps. Wikipedia-White Poplar Cape Spurge Caper Spurge Euphorbia lathyris Introduced. Not assessed. If not controlled this has the potential to become a serious pest in the area. Currently found only in the region of Pinewood Road, it has been the subject of concerted efforts by the Wednesday weeding group at controlling a spreading infestation. Care has to be taken when handling this plant as broken stems produce latex which can cause skin irritation. This is exasperated by exposure to sunlight and can cause severe blistering. All parts of this plant are poisonous to humans and most animals. The natural range of this species is southern Europe and north Africa eastwards to western China.but has become naturalised through garden waste dumping and is now classed as invasive in many countries. iNaturalist-Caper Spurge Agapanthus Agapanthus praecox Introduced. Not assessed. This is a widely grown species which is sometimes called the Blue or African Lily and is familiar to many with its bright blue, globe-shaped flowers. More rarely, white coloured flowers can be found with lighter shades of blue also occurring in some populations. It is a native to Southern parts of Africa but is naturalised in several countries including Australia and New Zealand and is now regarded as a pest species in several others. In Aotearoa New Zealand it is frequently found in parkland and along roadsides. The blooms once they have finished flowering produce a number of flattened seeds which are spread by wind once dry or by water in areas prone to heavy rain. They can take up to four years to flower. They should be deadheaded once flowering is over to help prevent their spread. Wikipedia-Agapanthus praecox Agapanthus Everlasting Pea Lathyrus latifolius Introduced. Not assessed. The alternative name for this plant is the Broad-leaved Sweet Pea, an apt and descriptive name referring to the elongated 2 cm wide leaves which can reach 7.5 cm long. If growing amongst vegetation it is able to scramble up to a height of 2 m, aided by twinning tendrils that help it grasp. It is, however, able to scramble over open ground. Flowers are large, up to 2.5 cm and are a rich pink with some lighter areas. Flowering season can be long, spanning nine months from September through to May, depending on area. Many seedpods are produced but also spreads from rhizomes. Native to Europe it has been introduced to many countries and is now classed as an environmental weed here in Aotearoa New Zealand. NZPCN-Broad-leaved Sweet Pea Everlasting Pea Wilding Pine Pinus radiata Introduced. Not assessed. Several conifer species fall under this category but for the Foxton Beach area it is Pinus radiata, the familiar Radiata Pine. This species as a whole is planted for commercial timber production but it is not those that are planted, it is the growth that develop from seed outside of these areas which cause a problem. These grow quickly and out compete all other species, including any natives. These wilding pines are becoming a real problem in some areas and attempts to control them nationally is becoming a major problem. In the Foxton Beach area, they are not a problem as such but there is a number starting to encroach in the area near Pinewood Road and needs addressing. Wilding Pines.NZ Wilding Pine Karo Pittosporum crassifolium Endemic. Not threatened. This fast-growing shrub is one of the few native species that is considered to be invasive. Although endemic, it only occurs naturally in the north of the North Island and for various reasons has spread too other areas. It is a common garden plant, along with other members of the Pittisporum genus but unlike those it spreads vigorously through the copious amount of seeds it produces. It is mainly a coastal species adapting to a variety of coastal habitats from coastal dune slacks to boulder beaches and sometimes on steep cliffs. Flowers are red/pink/purple and borne in clusters with grey bulbous seed pods developing soon after before the black seeds are dropped or dispersed Wikipedia-Pittosporum crassifolia Karo

The Manawatū Estuary Trust is grateful for the support it receives from the community and organisations that fund community groups. We rely on volunteers and donations to run. The Manawatū Estuary Trust holds committee meetings on the first Tuesday of every month and these are held at Holben Pavilion starting at 7pm. The meetings are open to both the public and community. The Annual General Meeting (AGM) is held in November. A guest speaker and afternoon tea generally follow the proceedings. Details will appear here and on our Facebook page so check in nearer the time. Please contact us if you would like to become a member of the Manawatū Estuary Trust. The annual subscription is $20 for an individual or family. Payment can be made by electronic payment to: Account name - Manawatū Estuary Trust Account number - 38-9007-0522216-00 Kiwi Bank, Levin You can contact us by email using the form below or by post at: Manawatū Estuary Trust P.O. Box 11 Foxton Beach Your details were sent successfully! Send

SPECIES TO WATCH FOR Parrot's Feather Myriophyllum aquaticum Introduced. Not assessed. This is one of the numerous species on the National Pest Plant Accord (NPPA) list which bans the sale of this potentially invasive species. However, of the sixteen regions with pest management plans it is only classed as a pest in eight, one of which is not Horizons. It is not considered a pest in this area although it is found in some locations. This is a plant of mainly freshwater but can tolerate slightly saline estuarine conditions. Can grow in water up to 2 m in depth with the feathery growth protruding around 10 cm above water. Once established it can form large mats which can reach a stage where it chokes or shades waterways which can cause serious problems for native species. Fragments can be water dispersed. Weedbusters-Parrot's Feather i Naturalist-Parrot's Feather parrots feather Field Horsetail Equisetum arvense I ntroduced. Not assessed. This invasive species has the potential to become a problem. How to deal with this species is given in the link below which covers the issue in great detail. It is a relative of the ferns and is easily distinguished by its up-right, feathery green foliage. Can form pure strands which crowd out other species, and these can be quite extensive. It is toxic to stock so can become quite a problem in pasture. Apart from dry ground, it thrives in almost all types of damp ground such as roadsides, gardens, riverbeds and pasture. Very rarely seen at the beach and dunes but worth keeping an eye out for it. A trial with the weevil Grypus equiseti is being undertaken in the region. Progress report is viewable here. Community Pest Control . Horizons Regional Council-Weeding out Field Horsetail field horsetail Sea Spurge Euphorbia paralias Not assessed. Arrived naturally. DO NOT TOUCH. SAP IS TOXIC AND COULD SPREAD SEED. This potentially destructive weed is thought to have come across the Tasman Sea, carried on currents from Eastern parts of Australian where there are large areas of this dangerous plant. It is a notifiable plant and if observed should be reported following the details given opposite, taken from a sign, two of which have been erected by DOC down at the beach, One on Pinewood Road and one by the beach entrance near the Surf Club. It is not yet a common plant, but known sites are monitored and visited frequently to check for further growth. More details can be found by clicking on the links below. MPI-Sea Spurge Wikipedia-Euphorbia paralias Spurge

Indo-pacific Comb Star Other marine species A variety of other weird and wonderful organisms are sometimes to be found on the beach, either washed up after a storm or dying through natural causes. They are a diverse collection which are difficult to catagorise without being too scientific because of not falling into any one particular family. Apart from those included here some more examples are given on the Beach Mysteries page. Types covered in this group include seaweed, sea urchins, starfish, jellyfish and sponges with a checklist of species recorded from the area included here . Information is basic and continually updated with links given by the usual method to a wealth of additional information. Headings and columns A and B are locked, so are always visible. Web address links are edited to fit within the static species columns. List can be downloaded, and additions added for personal use be “save as”. These will not be saved to web. Indi-pacific Comb Star Finger Sponge By-the-wind sailor

Smooth Willowherb Epilobium billardiereanum Native. Not threatened. As one of a few native species of Epilobium , it is the only native willowherb present in the Dune Garden, and then not always. This annual species comes and goes, like a few others. It thrives with lots of water, so may never be a big factor in the Dune Garden. Mainly a coastal species growing on damp sand or sandy ground close to slow moving steams, ponds and lakes. Although it favours sparse vegetated areas it is frequently found in association with several species of reeds and sedges. It is a tall plant reaching almost a metre tall in some places with tiny pink flowers but it is the seed pods which are quite distinctive as they are long cylindrical structures which, when ripe, split open to reveal the seeds. Attached to these seeds are a number of fine white hair-like parachutes which give the plant a "fluffy" look. These are used to help disperse seeds by wind. Over forty species of willowherb are found in Aotearoa New Zealnd, many of which are found nowhere else. This species is also to be found in Australia. iNaturalist-Smooth Willowherb NZPCN-Epilobium billardiereanum

Kōtare/Sacred Kingfisher Todiramphus sanctus Native. Not threatened. A common bird throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. Found in small numbers around the estuary being seen most frequently perched on posts, branches and power lines, a particular favourite spot. They feed on a variety of prey types such as crabs, fish and large insects but other species are eaten as they become seasonally available. Kingfishers mostly catch their food by plunging from perches. These favoured spots can have pellets, the undigested parts of their diet, beneath and are an indicator of what they have been eating. They nest in a hollow excavated in a stump or bank where up to five eggs are laid. The photograph opposite was taken in a Foxton garden. nzbirdsonline-Sacred Kingfishe r

It is well known that Aotearoa New Zealand has a disproportionate number of introduced species and that many of them have become a serious problem around the estuary. Efforts are being made to control and eradicate them, but it is a continuous battle that needs constant effort to keep on top of it. Click on the pictures below to go to some of the current information on work that is being done around the estuary. Pest Fauna Pest Plants

Tītiko/Mudflat Snail Amphibola crenata Endemic. Not threatened. If you look over the estuary as the tide recedes, what appears to be numerous bumps are in fact this species of snail. Not only here but it is a very common species on most estuary mudflats around Aotearoa New Zealand but is found nowhere else in the world. It is neither a true marine or land snail and is able to survive briefly at high tide for an hour or so and then begins to breath air again as the tide falls back. They feed by grazing the surface for decomposing matter and waste is secreted in wavy strands, clearly visible in the picture opposite. Large specimens are sometimes eaten. Wikipedia-Mudflat Snail saltmarsh snail Saltmarsh Snail Pleuroloba costellaris Endemic. Not assessed. This is a very small species of snail measuring no more than 14 mm when adult. Consequently, it is easily overlooked as it is found mainly in vegetation bordering marshy areas, frequently on small bits of driftwood. Although endemic to Aotearoa New Zealand it is restricted mainly to the North Island with only a few scattered records from the north of the South Island, although because of its diminutive size may be easily overlooked and may have a wider distribution. It is a fairly abundant species in suitable habitats around the estuary which mainly border the muddier areas such as out from the pines on Pinewood Road. In some literature it is referred to as Banded Ear Snail. marinelife.ac.nz-Banded Ear Snail Toheroa Phapies ventricosa Endemic. Not assessed. With adults growing up to 130 mm, this is the largest of the molluscs and one that is an important part of the diet for Māori. Unfortunately, because of commercial over-harvesting and an almost catastrophic collapse in populations there has been a ban, other than for cultural purposes, since 1979. A history of its decline is given in the link below. Regrettably, the populations have not recovered, and a number of reasons are thought to have contributed to this such as illegal poaching, vehicles on beaches and degraded habitat and is now believed extinct in the Foxton Beach area. Attempts at reintroducing them was only partially successful with numbers decreasing again for the reasons given above. This is a species under threat and even though a ban has been in place it is not included on the New Zealand Threat Classification System. New Zealand Geographic-The Elusive Toheroa Toheroa Photo Lindsay Alexander iNaturalist Fisheries (Amateur Fishing) Regulations 2013. Prohibition on taking, possessing, or disturbing toheroa