Papangaio Te Wharangi Manawatū Estuary Information on this website is found by clicking on related pictures, links or via the search button below. Checklist species can be found via the find and search icon on the home page ribbon on the relevant Excel spreadsheet once opened. Any upcoming events can be found here Search Unique Wildlife Viewing Platforms The Manawatu Estuary is a living habitat where international migratory birds and New Zealand shore birds use its ecological diversity to sustain their populations. The estuary is a Ramsar Wetland of International significance and is one of the most accessible Ramsar sites for viewing. The project to build two unique bird shaped viewing platforms, makes an open-air site for local residents, visitors and educational classes alike to enjoy a place to observe the estuary with its tidal fluctuations. These two, flying bird-shaped viewing platforms will accommodate the greater number of people who are becoming increasingly more interested in estuaries, especially school groups. We are very grateful for the generosity of Sheila Coombs who funded this project. Once the concept plan above is complete, a photograph will be included in the slideshow above. Introduction 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.

As of 20th July 2026, two cases of the Avian Influenza highly infectious strain H5N1 has been found in Aotearoa New Zealand. Since a number of cases came to light in Australia, it was only a matter of time before it made its way here. There has been a lot of media coverage recently but the main focal point for information is the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) who lead the national biosecurity response while Department of Conservation focused on wildlife, threatened native species, public conservation land, and our relationships with partners and communities. The MPI website s hould be consulted at all times for updated information. Below is a screenshot of the MPI webpage applicable to bird flu with links. Birds NZ operate a beach patrol scheme which monitors birds found dead of sick around our coasts which provides valuable information, and follows health and safety guidelines set out by MPI. By way of comparison, to give an insight into the situation overseas a screenshot, again with links, is given to the DEFRA (Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs website in England. The following link to a recent article in New Zealand Geographic " Weekender " gives details of some overseas events and the impact it can have on colony species. BRIEF REPORTING REQUIREMENTS When reporting provide as much information as possible, including: a GPS reading or other precise location information photographs and videos of sick and dead birds how many are sick or freshly dead, and the total number of birds present Common name of affected bird/s. Keep your distance - Stay away from sick or dead wildlife. Keep pets away too. Keep clean. Wash your hands and clean your gear after being outdoors. Know when to report. If you see three or more sick or dead birds or wildlife, (see below) report them to the exotic pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66. A bit more explanation of the 3 or more bird reference, or what you might expect to see: 1) It is for all classes of birds, domestic and wild. 2) It is more likely the three (or more) birds are in fairly close proximity, all relatively of the same decay age (freshly dead), and no other likely reason for them to be dead. 3) The symptoms are more than one clearly sick, diarrhea and more immobile than you'd expect. 4) There’s always the odd dead bird if you look, there’s only one testing lab so MPI are likely not wanting to create an expectation every bird will have someone go and pick up...limiting drop offs saves money and capacity from massive amounts of 'possibly bird flu’, and the thoughts are three would more likely be indicative of mass first introduction to a lethal flu. About bird flu and the risk to Aotearoa New Zealand About the disease, its spread, and the risk to New Zealand. About biosecurity in New Zealand Pest and disease threats to New Zealand Keeping pests and diseases out of New Zealand Priority list of potentially invasive pests and diseases Horticultural pest and disease threats to NZ Freshwater pest and disease threats to NZ Ocean pest and disease threats to NZ Pastoral pest and disease threats to NZ Tree pest and disease threats to NZ Biosecurity risk assessment and analysis Animal disease threats to NZ H5 bird flu About bird flu and the risk to New Zealand Advice for commercial poultry farmers Dairy cattle and other livestock Bird flu and protecting your birds Surveillance and response Protecting our native species Bird flu: staying safe and alert when outdoors Information for veterinarians Avian influenza, food safety, and human health Bird flu newsletters, fact sheets, science reports, and other resources Resources for media about bird flu African swine fever disease prevention Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) response plans Foot and mouth disease Infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) Find, report, and prevent pests and diseases Biosecurity at New Zealand's border Exotic pests and diseases in New Zealand Biosecurity and your pets 'The border space': a newsletter about our work at the border Last reviewed: 19.07.26 SITUATION UPDATE: 19 July 2026 New Zealand has 2 confirmed detections of H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza (H5 bird flu). One in an ocean-going seabird from Petone beach, Wellington, and another, a kāhu, swamp harrier hawk, that was found near Carterton in the Wairarapa. There is no evidence of any mass mortality in wildlife. There has been no detections in poultry. Chicken and eggs remain safe to eat and bird flu is a very low risk to human health. New Zealand is well prepared to respond quickly to H5 bird flu. Response and surveillance work continues to step up in close coordination with industry partners and others agencies. In addition to New Zealand’s continuous bird flu surveillance and testing programme, additional work will include: extra checking of birds and marine mammals at selected sites in coastal areas in Wellington and the Wairarapa over coming days alongside industry, MPI will continue to offer one-on-one support and advice to poultry and egg operations in Wellington and the Wairarapa establishing a technical advisory group of expert scientists to supplement advice from MPI’s internationally recognised experts. The Department of Conservation will continue its vaccination programme for 300 core breeding birds from 5 of our most endangered birds – kākāpō, takahē, tūturuatu/shore plover, kakī/black stilt, and kākāriki karaka/orange-fronted parakeet. Be alert and use good habits to limit the impact of bird flu Keep your distance. Stay away from sick or dead wildlife. Keep pets away too. Keep clean. Wash your hands and clean your gear after being outdoors. Know when to report. If you see 3 or more sick or dead wild birds in a group, report it immediately to the exotic pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66 or online at report.mpi.govt.nz If you report online, select the ‘dead or dying wild birds’ option from the dropdown list and then the type of bird you have found. Don’t handle or move the birds. Find out more about how you can limit the impact of bird flu in New Zealand On this page How is New Zealand responding to this detection? What is bird flu Global spread of bird flu Risk to humans and animals Signs of bird flu Reporting bird flu How is New Zealand responding to this detection? New Zealanders are being asked to be alert after 2 confirmed detections this week of H5 bird flu in birds. A kāhu, swamp harrier hawk, that was found near Carterton is the second bird confirmed with H5 bird flu following a brown skua seabird found on Petone Beach. MPI is stepping up its work with our industry partners to support poultry and egg farmers, including extra testing and checking of birds, more one-on-one support for farmers, and the establishment of a technical advisory groups of experts of bird scientists to inform our work. This find shows our continuous surveillance programme is working as it should. The Department of Conservation continues its vaccination programme for 300 core breeding birds from 5 of our most endangered birds – kākāpō, takahē, tūturuatu/shore plover, kakī/black stilt, and kākāriki karaka/orange-fronted parakeet. DOC on alert after H5 bird flu detection – Department of Conservation MPI will continue its existing wider surveillance programme and work closely with industry, veterinarians, and wildlife carers. Over the past 12 months, through surveillance and monitoring activities in wild birds, around more than 2,500 wild birds and 12,500 commercial poultry were tested. What is bird flu? Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, is a highly contagious viral disease that mainly affects birds. However, it can also spread to mammals – including people. There are 2 main types of avian influenza: high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI), which can cause severe signs and high death rates in birds. There are a number of strains including H5, H7, and H9. low pathogenicity avian influenza (LPAI), which typically causes few or no signs in birds but can possibly mutate to HPAI. LPAI is present in wild birds in New Zealand. We have an active surveillance programme for LPAI and test around 2,000 samples from wild birds each year. LPAI causes few or no signs of illness in wild birds. However, when a low pathogenicity strain of avian influenza is introduced to chickens, it can mutate into a high pathogenicity strain. Strains of HPAI have circulated globally for years. Many countries have seasonal outbreaks in poultry every year. New Zealand has been monitoring the spread of HPAI globally for the past 20 years. Biosecurity New Zealand and our partners have surveillance programmes in place to detect the arrival of HPAI and other exotic diseases. This animated video explains how bird flu is spreading, symptoms to look out for, and biosecurity measures that people can take to be ready. Transcript – show/hide Global spread of H5 bird flu In 2020, H5 bird flu (H5N1 avian influenza clade 2.3.4.4b) emerged in the northern hemisphere. It established in wild birds and spread to the United Kingdom, Europe, the United States, and other regions. In 2023, it was detected in the southern hemisphere. Since then, it has spread through South America to the sub-Antarctic islands and the Antarctic peninsula. In June 2026, Australia confirmed its first detection of H5 bird flu in an ocean-going sea bird in Western Australia. Find out more about H5 bird flu detection in Australia Bird flu (avian influenza) – Australian Government Why H5 bird flu is of concern H5 bird flu can infect a much broader range of wild birds and spread across a larger geographical range than previous strains. It can cause high numbers of deaths in poultry (chickens and turkeys), waterfowl (ducks, geese and swans), shorebirds (godwits, stilts and plovers), and seabirds (gulls and terns). It has spilled over to more than 60 species of mammal, including marine mammals, companion animals, and livestock. This strain of bird flu can spread by direct contact between infected and healthy birds, or through contamination of equipment and materials, including water and feed. Risks to humans and animals The risk to human health is low. It remains rare for humans to be infected with H5 bird flu. The disease is generally only found in people who have had a lot of close contact with infected birds or other infected animals.  H5 bird flu is very unlikely to transmit from human to human. However, viruses can change over time, so it’s important that we remain vigilant.   Overseas, some mammals, including dairy cattle in the United States, have been infected after contact with infected birds. With supportive care, infected cattle generally recover in 2 to 3 weeks. In New Zealand, the risk of transmission from birds to cattle or other livestock is low. One reason for this is that our farming practices are very different from the US. However, we encourage all farmers to practice good on-farm biosecurity. In rare cases, cats and dogs can get sick if they eat or interact with infected animals. To help protect your pets from bird flu: prevent wild birds from accessing your pet’s food and water don’t let pets eat or touch sick or dead animals keep dogs on a leash, especially near wild birds keep cats indoors If your pet gets sick after interacting with wild birds, keep them away from children and other animals and contact your vet. Commercial poultry flocks and avian influenza Domestic poultry and birds and avian influenza Wildlife and avian influenza Avian influenza, food safety, and human health Dairy and other livestock that may be affected by avian influenza Signs of bird flu The most obvious sign of bird flu is sudden death in several birds. Other signs in birds can include: weakness and trembling paralysis breathing difficulties lack of coordination blindness diarrhoea. Poultry may show more severe signs than wild birds, including lethargy, loss of appetite, droopy head, darkened or swollen comb/wattle, panting, nasal discharge, unusual drop in egg production, and bleeding disorders. Reporting bird flu If you see 3 or more sick or dead wild birds in a group, report it immediately to the exotic pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66 from anywhere in New Zealand, or online. If you report online, select the ‘dead or dying wild birds’ option from the dropdown list and then the type of bird you have fou nd. Online reporting form Don’t handle or move the birds. Provide as much detail as you can, including: common name or species of sick or dead bird if known how many are sick or freshly dead, and the total number of birds present a GPS reading or other precise location information photographs and videos of sick and dead birds MPI will contact notifiers if more information is required. How to report suspected bird flu – Fact sheet [PDF, 643 KB] Bird flu (avian influenza): latest situation in England Find out about the latest bird flu situation in England and guidance for bird keepers and the public. From: Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs and Animal and Plant Health Agency Published: 4 November 2022 Last updated: 7 July 2026 — See all updates Contents: Latest situation All bird flu cases and disease zones Bird flu guidance Bird gatherings Vaccines Latest GOV.UK news stories Risk levels and outbreak assessments Wild birds Mammals Bird flu webinars Defra policies and contingency plans Bird flu legislation Take action to prevent bird flu and stop it spreading . Be vigilant for signs of disease and report it to keep your birds safe. Check what zone you’re in on the bird flu disease zone map . You must: follow the rules for that zone check if you need a licence to move poultry, poultry by-products, eggs, material or mammals All bird flu cases and disease control zones The first case of HPAI H5N1 of the 2025 to 2026 outbreak season was confirmed in: England on 11 October 2025 Scotland on 12 November 2025 Wales on 25 October 2025 Northern Ireland on 9 October 2025 In line with World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) rules, the UK is no longer free from highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu). Find details of all bird flu cases and disease zones in England . 2025 to 2026: summary of confirmed cases in the UK HPAI H5N1 casesLPAI cases England 791 Scotland 90 Wales 70 Northern Ireland 50 Total1001 Previous outbreak seasons: summary of confirmed cases in the UK The season is recorded from 1 October to 30 September each year. Outbreak seasonHPAI casesLPAI cases 2024 to 2025 821 2023 to 2024 60 2022 to 2023 2071 2021 to 2022 1580 Find details of previous bird flu cases and disease zones in England . Find details of previous bird flu cases in Scotland , cases in Wales and cases in Northern Ireland . Find details and assessments of past outbreaks in Great Britain in the Animal and Plant Health Agency’s outbreak epidemiology reports . Bird flu guidance Find out how to: spot and report bird flu in poultry and other captive birds report dead wild birds prevent bird flu and stop it spreading follow the rules in disease zones check if you need a movement licence and how to apply house your birds safely follow the rules if you keep racing pigeons, birds of prey and other captive birds hold a bird gathering Find out when game birds are kept or wild and the rules you need to follow if you keep, release or catch them up. You can read guidance about: how to keep other pets safe from bird flu, such as cats and dogs how bird flu spreads in wild birds and wild mammals, and how the government monitors it avian influenza (bird flu) vaccination Bird gatherings If you are not in a disease control zone (such as a protection zone or surveillance zone) in England, follow the conditions in the general licences for gatherings of poultry and other captive birds . Read guidance on holding bird gatherings in England . Vaccines You cannot vaccinate poultry or most captive birds against bird flu in England. You can only vaccinate zoo birds in England if you meet eligibility criteria and get authorisation from APHA. Only zoos or collections holding a current zoo licence can apply for vaccination . Defra continues to invest in bird flu research and monitors the situation globally. We work with the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) to monitor the development of vaccines for birds. Find out more information on avian influenza (bird flu) vaccination and the work of the avian influenza vaccination taskforce . Latest GOV.UK news stories Avian Influenza  Prevention Zone lifts as risk reduces Avian Influenza housing measures lifted National Housing Order declared to protect poultry from Avian Influenza Housing measures introduced to protect poultry and other captive birds Avian Influenza Housing Measures Extended Poultry Meat Marketing Regulations to be amended to support industry through bird flu outbreaks Risk levels and outbreak assessments The risk of HPAI H5 in wild birds in Great Britain is assessed as low (event occurs rarely). The risk of poultry exposure to HPAI H5 in Great Britain is assessed as: low (event occurs rarely) (with low uncertainty) where there is suboptimal or poor biosecurity low (event occurs rarely) (with low uncertainty) where stringent biosecurity is consistently applied at all times Find details of the evidence that supported these decisions in the: risk and outbreak assessments outbreak epidemiology reports weekly reports of findings of bird flu in wild birds in Great Britain findings of bird flu in non-avian wildlife findings of bird flu in captive mammals The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) advise that bird flu is primarily a disease of birds and the risk to the general public’s health is very low. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has said bird flu poses a very low food safety risk for UK consumers. Properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat. Wild birds Find out how to report dead wild birds . Defra has set out practical information to support land managers, the public and ornithological and environmental organisations in their response to the growing threat of bird flu. The mitigation strategy for avian influenza in wild birds in England and Wales explains how these groups, together with the government and its delivery partners, can reduce the impact on wild bird populations whilst protecting public health, the wider environment and the rural economy. Landowners, local authorities and other organisations can download and print bird flu posters to display on site when there is a risk of bird flu or if bird flu has been detected in the area. Check the: interactive map of reported wild bird mortality and findings of bird flu in wild birds in Great Britain interactive dashboard of findings of bird flu in wild birds in Great Britain weekly reports of HPAI findings in wild birds in Great Britain You can find out more about: the collection thresholds for dead wild birds with suspected bird flu how bird flu spreads in wild birds and wild mammals, and how the government monitors it Feeding wild birds You can feed wild birds but always wash your hands with soap and water afterwards. Avoid areas that have premises where poultry or captive birds are kept. Wild birds can spread bird flu to captive birds. If you’re in an avian influenza prevention zone (AIPZ) you cannot feed wild gamebirds within 500m of a premises with more than 500 poultry or captive birds. Check if you’re in a zone on the bird flu zone map and find out more in the guidance on rules if you keep game birds . If you feed wild birds in your garden, read advice from the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) to keep feeders and water baths clean . This will help to stop bird flu and other diseases spreading between different birds. The UK Health Security Agency has said that the risk to the public from this bird flu strain is very low. It mainly affects birds. Do not touch or move any dead or sick wild birds – find out how to report them . Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water if you touch wild bird faeces or feathers. For more advice go to the NHS website . Mammals Avian influenza (bird flu) viruses can also infect wild and kept mammals. This is known as influenza of avian origin. Find out how we monitor the risk of influenza of avian origin in wild mammals . Check the: report of findings of influenza of avian origin in non-avian wildlife interactive map showing findings of influenza of avian origin in wild mammals in Great Britain findings of influenza of avian origin in captive mammals Influenza of avian origin in mammals is notifiable in both wild and kept mammals. You must report it immediately if you examine or inspect any wild or kept mammal, or analyse samples from any wild or kept mammal or mammal carcase and: suspect the presence of influenza of avian origin detect evidence of influenza A virus or antibodies to influenza A virus Report it immediately by calling: 03000 200 301 if you’re in England 03003 038 268 if you’re in Wales your local Field Services Office  if you’re in Scotland If you do not report it, you’re breaking the law. Bird flu webinars Whether you have pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a backyard flock, the avian influenza ‘stop the spread’ webinars explain what you can do to protect your birds. Defra policies and contingency plans D efra controls cases of bird flu by following the: contingency plan for exotic notifiable diseases notifiable avian disease control strategy mitigation strategy for avian influenza in wild birds in England and Wales Bird flu legislation The legislation in England includes: The Avian Influenza and Influenza of Avian Origin in Mammals (England) (No.2) Order 2006 The Avian Influenza and Influenza of Avian Origin in Mammals (Amendment) (England) Order 2022 The Exotic Disease (Amendment) (England) (EU Exit) Regulations 2018 The Exotic Animal Disease (Amendment) (England) Order 2021 The Exotic Animal Disease (Amendment) (England) Order 2022 The Exotic Disease (Amendment) (England) Order 2023 The Exotic Disease (Amendment) (England) Order 2024 The Avian Influenza (H5N1 in Wild Birds) (England) Order 2006 The Avian Influenza (H5N1 in Wild Birds) (England) (Amendment) Order 2021 The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (England) Regulations 2006 The Transport of Animals (Cleansing and Disinfection) (England) (No. 3) Order 2003 The Diseases of Animals (Approved Disinfectants) (England) Order 2007 The Avian Influenza (Vaccination) (England) Regulations 2006

Kuaka/Eastern Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica baueri Native. At risk-declining. Bar-tailed Godwits breed in Siberia and Alaska and travel all the way from the arctic to spend summer on Southern Hemisphere shores before returning in the autumn to breed in the northern summer. Most years the Manawatū Estuary hosts about 150 birds which are best seen from the Dawick Street viewing platform at high tide, roosting on the sandspit. Feeding on the mudflats at low tide they probe for molluscs, crustacea and worms. In non-breeding plumage, Bar-tailed Godwits sport a mottled dull brown and white upperparts, with dull white underparts. The rump and tail are barred brown and white, hence the name. In breeding plumage, the males' underparts become chestnut red instead of white. The females are larger and have longer beaks. The long, slightly upturned bill is at least 1.5 times the length of the head (2 times the length, in females), and is pale pink at the base, shading to black at the tip. The legs are a dark grey. Bar-tailed Godwits form flocks which can number several hundred. nzbirdsonline-Bar-tailed Godwit Sightings of banded/flagged birds at the Estuary White flag ZZU 27/1/25 Banding date:15/2/2018 Banded: Manawatu Estuary Since banding: 6yrs 11m 12d White flag BEC 5/12/2025 Banding date 19/11/2013 Banded Manawatu Estuary Since banding 11yrs 0m 16d White flag BEP 15/1/24 Banding date 5/11/2014 Banded: Manawatu Estuary Since banding 10yrs 1m 21d wrybill Ngutu pare/Wrybill Anarhynchus frontalis Endemic. Threatened-naturally increasing. One percent of the Aotearoa New Zealand population of Wrybills overwinters in the Manawatū Estuary, making this an important location for these waders. The best place to see them in the estuary is from the Dawick Street viewing platform at high tide, when they roost on the sandspit. They're usually seen only in winter, since in summer they're breeding on South Islands braided river systems. The Wrybill is the only bird in the world to have a beak that is bent to one side and is its most easily identifiable feature. A stocky shorebird, it has a pale grey back and white underparts and, in the breeding season, a thin black band across its breast. The black bill curves to the right. Its legs are grey green and not long. A gregarious bird in winter, it's usually seen in flocks on the Estuary. It feeds on mudflats by sieving tiny crustacea out of the water and mud, making sweeping motions with its bill. It also stalks and seizes polychaete worms and crabs, as well as probing the mud for worms and bivalves. nzbirdsonline-Wrybill Armitage, I. 2007. Wrybills (Anarhynchus frontalis) at the Manawatu River Estuary, North Island, New Zealand . Notornis 54 118-119. knot Huahou/Lesser Knot Calidrus canutus Native. At risk-declining. Frequently called Red Knot but a more appropriate name for Aotearoa New Zealand is Lesser Knot. The red refers to their breeding plumage which they acquire for their Arctic stay but arrive here in their non-breeding colouration of grey for our summer. They are best seen from the Dawick Street viewing platform at high tide, roosting on the sandspit, and can also be seen feeding on the mudflats at low tide. By mid-summer they may number several hundred. Lesser Knot are a stocky, nondescript shorebird that can be mistaken for other, rarer migrants. It is a plump bird with short, dull green legs and a short, heavy, straight black bill. General plumage is grey brown above, with pale feather edges that clearly mark the individual feathers, and has pale grey underparts with some markings on the flanks. In breeding plumage it has a rusty-red neck, head, and breast. A gregarious species, it is often seen in flocks but where there are only a few individuals, a group may roost with other species, especially Bar-tailed Godwits. It feeds on the mudflats at the tide line, drilling rapidly into the mud in search of invertebrates with a motion rather like that of a sewing machine needle, probing as they move around. nzbirdsonline-Lesser Knot banded dot Pohowera/Banded Dotterel Charadrius bicintus Native. At risk-declining. Pohowere/Banded Dotterel breed mainly inland, moving to coastal regions in late December and are at their greatest numbers in February. From mid-July they begin to return to their breeding grounds. Most years at least one attempt is made to nest in the sand dunes. Usual clutch size is three with incubation reputed to be around four weeks. Young are active from hatching and take a further 6 weeks to become independent. Plumage is variable with non-breeding livery pictured opposite. Two distinctive dark brown and chestnut bands cross the breast in breeding plumage, which fade as winter approaches. These active little birds are visual feeders, running across the mudflats and stopping when they see something interesting. Their diet consists of crustacea, worms, flies and berries from species such as Muehlenbeckia and Coprosma. nzbirdsonline-Banded Dotterel golden plover Kuriri/Pacific Golden Plover Pluvialis fulva Native. At risk-declining. The Pacific Golden Plover breeds in Siberia and Alaska, so it is only seen in Aotearoa New Zealand during our spring and summer months arriving from mid-September onwards and heading back in March and April. The annual migration round trip is 25-27000km. Usually seen in small flocks of up to 12 birds. It feeds by making short runs, stopping abruptly when it sees something on the surface of the mud, and then snatching at what it's spotted. Small crabs, marine worms, invertebrates and earthworms make up their diet. In non-breeding plumage Pacific Golden Plover are a mottled dark brown and buff on top with some hints of gold. It has a short black beak and grey legs, with a pale stripe above the eye, a pale forehead, and pale underparts, with some dull yellow-gold and dark speckled markings on the throat. Towards the end of summer black feathers will begin to show through as they prepare to migrate north to their breeding grounds. nzbirdsonline-Pacific Golden Plover

Mostly known to the public from finds under driftwood, in fact the majority of katipo live in native dune vegetation that has evolved to thrive in moving sand, eg. Kowhangatara , Pingao , Autetaranga or Taataraheke. Because of this, katipō are a good indicator of the state of health of a dune system, like a coal miner's canary. These four posters were produced by Arnim Littek for the 2025 Coastal Restoration Trust Annual Conference. Clicking on each will open a larger version on a separate page. Katipō Latrodectus katipo Endemic. At risk-declining. Katipō is an endangered, endemic species. It is also absolutely protected under the Wildlife Act. Its habitat is almost exclusively sand dune systems, through much of coastal Aotearaoa New Zealand, except the south of the South Island. Closely related to the Australian redback, they can interbreed to a degree, which is a problem since redbacks have already made homes in several locations in this country. Katipō come in two varieties. North of a line across the middle of the North Island, one finds predominantly black katipō South of that line one finds only the more well-known red katipō with a prominent red stripe on their abdomen. Sexual dimorphism is high - males are substantially smaller than females, and have a prominent white component in their coloration, as do juvenile females. Spiderlings are almost completely white. Both adult female red and black katipō can have other coloration than the abdominal stripe, but equally, often they have little or none. A black katipō with no coloration is difficult to discern from an all-black false katipō - the diagnostic criterion in this extreme case is the eye spacing. These enigmatic spiders are resident in the Dune Garden . More information can be found on iNaturalist here. Sutton, M.E., Christensen, B.R. and Hutchenson, J.A. 2006. Field Identification of Katipo . DoC Research and Development Series 237. wolf spider 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. The round, silken egg sac is carried around by the female and once hatched young are reputed to be carried around for a period of time before they leave and go their own separate ways. iNaturalist-Seashore Wolf Spider Nursery web Nursery Web Spider Dolomedes minor Endemic. Not threatened. Although a widespread species throughout Aotearoa New Zealand it is rarely seen in the flesh as it is nocturnal, spending most of the day in hiding amongst foliage. What appears to be a mass of web wrapped around the top of bushes is the first sign of their presence and it in these that the female lays her eggs which she guards until they hatch and for a short while afterwards until they disperse. A photograph appears on the beach mysteries page. Unlike many spiders all Dolomedes species, of which there are around 300 species worldwide, hunt prey rather than build a web to catch flying insects Wikipedia-Dolomedes minor

The Papangaio Te Wharangi Manawatū Estuary Management Plan 2025-2035 was launched March 2025. The launch celebrated the work to prepare the plan by the Estuary community and the proposed actions for the next 10 years. Click on this link to explore the Management Plan . This whole process involved much dedicated work by all concerned and a brief summary resulted in a joint application by Horowhenua District Council and Horizons Regional Council for the Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) SuperCollab award. Although unsuccessful, it in no way distracts from the considerable effort that is being put in to making this special place even more special. The 90 second presentation that accompanied this application is given via this video link. Bi-monthly meetings were held with representatives from local iwi, District, Regional and Government Agencies, plus numerous local organisations and interested individuals resulting in this comprehensive plan going forward. A major part of this was the formation of sub-groups to plan and implement actions to improve and increase knowledge on this special place. The full plan is comprehensive, but the abridged version of actions and the status of what has been carried out is available here and will be up-dated on a regular basis as additional work is undertaken. Also, newsletters will be produced quarterly and newspaper and magazine articles uploaded that relate to the estuary can be viewed by clicking on the links. The local Iwi and hapū histories of Ngāti Rawkawa te au ki te Tonga, Rangitāne o Manawatū and Muaūpoko can be viewed in sections 2, 3 and 4 respectively in the Management Plan . 7 activity working groups within the plan that implement the protection and restoration of the Estuary. Each group has a Team Lead. The Team Leads are responsible for driving the activity towards the objectives laid out in Appendix 5 of the plan. The Team Leads, which are for the most part volunteers, report on the outcomes and future planning at each 6 monthly meeting. If the Activity Group cannot achieve a task, it will be escalated to the MEMT secretariate to ensure the task is progressed. It may be either justified why it should not proceed; or an alternative approach found. An alternative approach may include sourcing funding for a person to carry out a task if a volunteer is unavailable, or for resources or expertise needed. Flora (Native plants) The role of this activity group is to optimise habitat to support abundant populations of at risk and threatened species at the Estuary. Initial focus is for at least 10 plant types; with at least two plant types suitable for each of the 3 ecosystems: Estuarine, Xeric and Dune Wetlands. This group has two areas of work: Dune Gardens – every fortnight, early Sunday mornings. and secondly those people who work from home germinating seed and on-growing cuttings. To volunteer: If the Dune Gardens work interests you contact team lead Arnim Littek If wanting to help with other plant growing, please call in to the Wildlife Foxton Trust office, 207 Seabury Avenue, Foxton Beach. Monday, Wednesday or Thursday mornings – ask for Nola Fox or email: info@wildlifefoxton.nz Fauna (Native animals including invertebrates) The role of this activity group is to optimise habitats to support abundant populations for at least 4 species that are vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered and located at Papangaio Te Wharangi Manawatū Estuary. This is a wide range with a lot of work needing to be carried out in surveying invertebrates, and other animals as well as supplementing existing bird surveys. To volunteer: Please call in to the Wildlife Foxton Trust office Monday, Wednesday or Thursday mornings – ask for Dave Coles or Vai Gordon, or email: info@wildlifefoxton.nz Pest Plants (Weekly Wednesdays and fortnightly Sunday mornings) The role of this activity group is to: To reduce or eliminate pest plants to allow native plants to take their place. To ensure that where pest plants are removed suitable native plants are available to replace them before new pest plants take over again. To ensure that once pest plants are eliminated, regular inspections occur to remove any regrowth before it becomes a problem. Wednesday mornings are in need of physically active people willing and able to chop and weed pest plants. To volunteer: Please call in to the Wildlife Foxton Trust office Wednesday mornings – ask for Dave Coles and he can take you down to where they are working. Led by Dr. Bob Hoskins who can be contacted on 063637081 or email: info@wildlifefoxton.nz The fortnightly Dune Garden work parties also focus on weed removal, including marram grass, and some reinstatement of plants damaged by storm and/or motorised machines in the dunes. To volunteer: Email Arnim Littek for more details. Pest Animals (trapping programme supported by Horizons Regional Council and Predator Free NZ. Administered by Wildlife Foxton Trust) The role of this activity group is to support a resilient indigenous species population that dominates the area through implementation of the pest animal management plan. Wildlife Foxton Trust has a rapidly growing pest animal trapping programme with already nearly 200 traps in backyards, estuary edges, in the Ramsar site and on adjacent farmland. Work is not for the fainthearted as it requires clearing and cleaning of traps and resetting as well as being able to walk trap lines. This programme is only happening through the strong support of Horizons Regional Council and Predator Free NZ. To volunteer: Please call in to the Wildlife Foxton Trust office Wednesday mornings – ask for Suzanne and she can take you through what is involved for getting our trap lines checked regularly or email: traps@wildlifefoxton.nz Water Quality The role of this activity group is to achieve a standard of healthy water quality where native species and people can thrive and prosper. Currently the group is working with Horizons Regional Council to get water quality records in easy-to-understand language for people in the community to understand. They are also looking into the process for notification of contamination events, and the status of the two closed landfills at Foxton and Foxton Beach. To volunteer: Email Kath Lane to find out how you can join in. Dune Protection The role of this activity group is to work with other activity groups to identify and implement protection, rehabilitation, maintenance and development for the dunes. Also to plan and implement protection to minimise impacts caused by the various groups that use the dunes. Erosion is also monitored. To volunteer: Email Grant Purdie for details. Community Engagement The role of this activity group is to have effective communication channels to all interested parties, including hapū of Ngāti Raukawa to ensure support is garnered and collaboration opportunities available. This includes strong engagement with schools and establishing high National visibility of the estuary as a Ramsar site. Currently this group works alongside Wildlife Foxton Trust volunteers to create a quarterly newsletter which you can read via the link. We are looking for an editor/producer to liaise with all the groups for newsletter content. We are also looking for a social media whiz to promote the estuary and the work of the volunteers. To help with any aspect of community engagement, email Nola Fox at info@wildlifefoxton.nz FOXTON BEACH COASTAL RESERVES MANAGEMENT PLAN In 2009 Horowhenua District Council produced a Management Plan for the Foxton Beach Coastal Reserve. The area covered by this is shown on the map below and while it only touches on part of the Ramsar site it is adjacent to it and many of the problems and uses are similar, so it is worth including a link to the Plan for reference as parts of it can now be enforced by Council, especially with the new Bylaws that are now in place not only there but for the whole district.

Shiny Bog-rush Schoenus nitens Native. Not threatened. This bog-rush is a small plant, growing to a maximum of 35cm in ideal growing conditions but frequently much less, and is easily distinguished from similar species by its well-developed leaves. A common species in many dune wetlands on this coast and wider, reaching as it does Australia and New Guinea. It is not yet widespread in the Dune Garden, but will over time spread further, as it is a successional species spreading as it does, into bare areas. It is mainly a coastal species of sand and can be found near tidal creeks, lagoons, swamps and shallow ponds. NZPCN-Schoenus nitens iNaturalist-Schoenus nitens

Tūturiwhatu/Spur-winged Plover Vanellus miles novaehollandiae Native. Not threatened. A self-introduced species from Australia, it is now firmly established and widespread here. A stocky, noisy bird with a quarrelsome nature and raucous voice, it is a familiar bird around the estuary. General plumage colour is grey brown above with white underparts, black cap and shoulders plus distinctive yellow wattles. Nests are built in open habitats near wetland areas or in grassland. Each clutch has 3-4 eggs which hatch in around a month. Young leave the nest shortly after hatching and gain independence at 6-7 weeks. They consume a wide variety of food ranging from worms, insects to molluscs and crustacea. nzbirdsonline-Spur-winged Plover

Photo credits, (thumbnail) Don and Betty Wood. (main) Jesse Bythell Māori Musk Thyridia repens Native. At risk-naturally uncommon. This rare flowering species is found in estuaries around Aotearoa New Zealand. We are fortunate to have some in the Manawatū Estuary, but in a relatively inaccessible area which is no bad thing, Although the flower is distinctive, when not in flower the plant can resemble Maakoako. It is a widespread, although uncommon species which seems to have suffered from the spread of several species of exotic reeds and grasses.. Flower colour varies between shades of purple but are sometimes much lighter, bordering almost to white. These distinctive blooms appear between November and May. but are relatively short-lived. NZPCN-Thyridia repens iNaturalist-New Zealand Musk

CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS Events will be added to the calendar as they are notified. Only those of particular interest to the estuary and its fauna and flora will be included here and encompass all Horowhenua, Palmerston North and Whanganui. These will only be those that are open meetings with main organisations being Manawatū Estuary Trust, Manawatū Estuary Management Team, Wildlife Foxton Trust, SoRT, Forest and Bird and the Manawatū branch of Birds New Zealand. Planting days, weeding sessions and welcome/farewell the Godwits will also be included. Space is limited for each event but clicking on the time will show more details, including venue, speaker and a link, if available. By clicking on the location, a google map will become visible. Posters for upcoming events, if available, follow the calendar so please scroll down. You are seconds away from getting this done. 🤩 
 ⚙️Google Calendar Connector and add your Google Calendar URL to connect. Open the upcoming events UPCOMING EVENTS This area will be populated with even posters as and when they become available REGULAR EVENTS The Manawatū Estuary Trust and several local organisations and Agencies periodically hold events which enhance both peoples' enjoyment and protection of the area, giving the opportunity to learn more about this very special place. There are two main activities which occur once or twice a year and several, mainly centred around weeding pest plants which are undertaken on either weekly or a fortnightly basis. Dates for the two big events will be published on both this and on the Wildlife Foxton Trust website, plus other local organisations media and through Horizons Regional Council and Horowhenua District Council. Following local facebook pages will also notify of up-coming events. Details on main calendar if available. Welcome and Farewell the Godwits The estuary hosts a farewell (March/April) and a welcome back (September/October) for the migrating Bar-tailed Godwit (see calendar for details) which use the area either as a summer residence or a stop-off resting/feeding place en-route to other places. Some birds on their way back to Aotearoa New Zealand from Alaska can fly 11-13,000 km non-stop to get here in as little as 7 days. The event is held around the viewing platform on Dawick Street and hosted by the Manawatū Estuary Trust who provide spotting scopes to view the birds at close range. Dr Phil Battley, a renowned authority, acts as master of ceremonies, providing an insight into these birds and their amazing flights Planting Sessions For several years, Horowhenua District Council (HDC) and Horizons Regional Council (HRC) have been funding both the purchase and growing of Kōwhangatara/Spinifex and Pingao for the dunes at Foxton Beach to aid stabilisation of the dunes and thanks to a generous donation from Horizons Regional Council's Pūtea Hapori Urupare Āhuarangi Community Response Fund, Wildlife Foxton Trust were able to successfully grow 3000 Kōwhangatara/Spinifex plants in 2023 and 2024. In 2024 Central Districts 4 X 4 Club also donated over a 1000 Spinifex plants. Wildlife Foxton Trust continues to grow both species. Volunteers from a number of local and regional groups, plus representatives from both HRC and HDC participated in the planting of these important species for the protection of the dunes. Wildlife Foxton Trust and Manawatū Estuary Trust websites will include notices of further planting days, as will both facebook pages and other publications in the area. Weeding Sessions One of the main areas of concern around the estuary and the area in general is the profusion of invasive weeds that are taking over, crowding out native species, many of which are at risk. A number of local enthusiasts spend a considerable amount of time trying to keep them under control and are to be found every Wednesday morning and alternate Sunday mornings at various points around the estuary attending to pest species. It is not all hard work and is a brilliant way to learn about the special plants that are to be found in this amazing place. If you are interested in helping with this important activity, please make contact through the contact MET page. MAJOR CLEARANCE SESSIONS Apart from the weeding sessions mentioned above, periodically groups come together at various locations such as the loop at Foxton and Waitarere Beach, to undertake major clearance of pest plants such as poplar, willow, ragwort and acacia. Major rubblish clearance is also carried out. These are normally run in conjunction with Horowhenua District Council so keep looking at the events calendar for any upcoming events

Mudwort Limosella lineata Native. Not threatened. This tiny dune wetland herb turned up in the Dune Garden in 2023 in a single patch which hopefully will increase over time. Found in other dune wetlands on this coast, and a few Estuaries too, it is not found in the Manawatū Estuary at the time of writing. One of the nice attributes of this species is that it can flower at any time of the year, but you must look closely – the flower is ca. 2 mm in width. Often growing in dense patches over open mudflats, these patches can be green, brown or red. It can also host a rare form of endemic yellow rust (fungus), which until a few patches were noticed north of Foxton Beach in 2023, had not been registered anywhere since 1970. NZPCN-Limosella australis iNaturalist-Limosella australis

Kuruwhengi/Australasian Shoveler Anas rhynchotis Native. Not threatened. The Australasian Shoveler is a dabbling duck, getting most of its food from the surface of water or mud which it filters through the lamellae (hair-like structures) on the upper edge of the top mandible (bill). Invertebrates and seeds form the bulk of their diet. The beak itself is a major feature of the species, and the shape gives the bird its name. Males are quite distinctive with their blue-grey head and neck with a white crescent at the base of their bill. Mottled brown and white breast, chestnut flanks, and a white patch at the base of the tail. Females are a mottled brown with dull brown bill and eyes. Out of the breeding season some males develop female-like plumage. Lowland coastal swamps, freshwater lakes and wetlands plus occasionally the open sea are favoured habitats for this fast-flying species. It is seen in the estuary at most time of the year. nzbirdsonline-Australasian Shoveler 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. Pairs can often be seen on the ponds and waterways around Holben Reserve 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 Duch and Mallards by its lack of facial stripes and its much smaller size. Generally found on shallow fresh water with plenty of cover., it flies with a quick wingbeat when disturbed Although it isn't a gamebird, it is often mistaken for Grey Duck or Shoveler and shot. nzbirdsonline-Grey Teal grey teal mallard Rakiraki/Mallard Anas platyrhynchos Introduced. Not assessed. Male Mallard has a glossy green head, a white ring around the neck, a chestnut breast, orange feet, and a grey back. The female is much less showy, with upperparts patterned in browns and lower parts pale. She has a pale line above the eye and a dark line through the eye and looks similar to the Pārera/Grey Duck. The female can be distinguished by her darker throat and by the lines above and below the eye, which are much less distinct than in the grey duck. The dark stripe through the eye on Mallard is also much less distinct. Greys and Mallards are capable of hybridising, so some intermediate versions may be seen, especially in the males. Unfortunately, this is likely to result in the extinction of this species in Aotearoa New Zealand. Take a good look at those in the estuary and see the plumage variation. The Mallard is a dabbling duck, which means it feeds from the surface of shallow water and doesn't usually dive for its food, which consists of aquatic invertebrates and plants. It may pick things off the surface or upend itself and reach down into the water, its tail sticking up. nzbirdsonline-Mallard.

Tātaraheke/Sand Coprosma Coprosma acerosa Endemic. At risk-declining. Rapidly becoming a scarce species and now classified as threatened. Primarily found in dry dunes around Aotearoa New Zealand and on this coast, it is often found growing in dune wetland areas too. The Dune Garden area is routinely home to new seedlings, both in the dry dunes and the wetland area. Male and female flowers are visibly different with the latter producing fruit, sometimes copiously, with a refreshing taste. The colour of the fruit varies from a bland white to a striking blue. Reclamation, competition from Marram Grass Ammophila arenaria and browsing by lagomorphs (Rabbits and Hares) are some of the main causes of decline but responds well when both these threats are controlled. NZPCN-Sand Coprosma iNaturalist-Sand Coprosma