Kōwhangatara/Spinifex Spinifex sericeus Native. Not threatened. As the key species of grass that underpins the dune ecosystems of much of Aotearoa New Zealand, this species is the pre-eminent builder of dunes. The rolling female seed heads are familiar to beach-goers all over the country in summer. The orange male seed head is distinctively different to the female, making determination of gender of the plants simple in summer. Studies have shown that fertility increases if a male plant is in close proximity to a group of females but even then fertility is only around 45% making determination of the viability of seed a problem for growers wanting to assist in restoration projects. Over the past few years Horowhenua District Council have held planting sessions, having planted over 10,000 Kōwhangatara, and recently Wildlife Foxton Trust have grown, with funding from Horizons Regional Council, nearly 3000 plants which were planted in 2023. Similiar numbers were planted in both 2024 and 2025. These sessions will continue so please check Events to see if any are planned for the near future. Although Kōwhangatara is primarily a dry dune species, it is very much a part of the dune wetland ecosystem in the Dune Garden. NZPCN-Spinifex sericeus iNaturalist-Spinifex sericeus coastalrestorationtrust-Spinifex ecology

Dune Garden The Dune Garden is an ephemeral dune wetland surrounded by a ring of tall, dry dunes, on the western edge of the Manawatu Estuary Ramsar site. It is the most studied and actively managed coastal site on this coast, and probably much wider. As such it is a good wilderness habitat to explore, learn about, and better yet, become involved in its protection. Community work parties undertake monitoring and weeding tasks on a fortnightly basis, on Sunday mornings. This helps to protect the natural biodiversity, and provides a path to learn about the ecosystem, the flora and the fauna that make the Dune Garden home. If you would like to know more, please use the Support MET page on this site to reach out. To find the Dune Garden, follow the signs to Foxton Beach township, driving along main road Seabury Avenue through the township to the Foxton Beach Holiday Park where the map below becomes useful to direct you to the Dune Garden, and various points around it. Car parking is available on the hard sand at the end of Pinewood Road, i.e. where the blue arrows in the above map start. Access to the big bowl in the centre of the Dune Garden is over the big dune or else wending one's way through smaller dunes. The former is more straightforward and provides a sweeping first view. From atop the dune you might already be able to see the fluoro orange sunhat and jacket of regular attendees hundreds of meters to the west. We recommend you inform the team of your arrival time, If your timing is inopportune, they may be working behind a small dune or equivalent. It is easier for us to be appropriately visible if you're close to your indicated arrival time. As an ephemeral dune wetland, the Dune Garden tends to be quite dry through the summer and autumn, and over winter can fill up with water, which in wet years may remain until summer. The wetland area can be hard packed sand when dry, and the surrounding dunes are soft dry sand where they're not covered in vegetation. Dune Garden team members are happy to explain this as part of your introduction to the area. Photo C. Tuffley These dunes can get warm even with a stiff breeze, common enough on this coast. Often little wind is felt in the Dune Garden, so it can warm up quickly. If you're on a north facing dune, the sand gets quite hot, well before midday, so sessions may target finishing by midday for that reason. Layered clothing is recommended, with a light windproof top layer. There is no official start time but earlier is better to avoid the heat. Come when it suits and for as long as you like. Useful items to bring include sunhat, sun cream, water bottle, munchies, and a camera. Sometimes a digging tool is useful along with a bag in your pocket for collecting rubbish - bread bags are appropriately small and relatively robust, but others bring larger ones. Plastic remains are highly undesirable in our environment and can then be picked up and deposited in a Council rubbish bin, e.g. in the area of the playground.

Giant Kōkopu Galaxias argenteus Endemic. At risk-declining. This is the largest member of its family with specimens of over 450 mm in length have been reported This is rare with fish in the range of 200–300 mm being the more common size. It was the first of its genus (family) to be discovered and the whole group was given the name Galaxias because of the profusion of spots on adults giving the appearance of stars in the galaxy. Only found in low numbers in the whitebait catch, they can live in land-locked bodies of water such as lakes, and in streams where water-flow is slow with ample overhanging vegetation for shelter. They are mainly nocturnal in habit and feed on a variety of insects and other aquatic life. More information on this interesting species can be found here . Wikipedia-Giant Kokopu

Matakupenga/White Basket Fungus Ileodicyton cabarium Native. Not assessed. The early stages of this interesting fungus, prior to fully opening, is egg-shaped and coloured either white or grey. As it developes, the outer shell bursts open to reveal an impressive lace-like structure which is the familiar sight most people see. It is native to Australia and New Zealand but has also been recorded from several South American countries plus some areas of Africa. Records from the UK are definitely through introductions, most likely from imported plant material. Favoured habitats range from near plant debris, in lawns and cultivated soils. At the estuary it grows in the dunes and can either be found solitary or with several in close proximity. iNaturalist - White Basket Fungus Wikipedia - White Basket Fungus Fly Agaric Amanita muscaria Introduced. Not assessed. Although not a native, this is probably one of the most familiar fungi in Aotearoa New Zealand. With its distinctive red cap, often with a scattering of white spots or warts it is unlikely to be confused with any other species once fully developed. Initially, the fruiting body is round but as it matures the cap opens and becomes round which in can measure up to 20 cm across. This is one of the most poisonous of fungi and must not be consumed in any way. Although fatalities are rare it can cause severe stomach issues. There are, however, some species such as introduced slugs which will eat them which is why some may appear to be nibbled. Found in the Northern Hemisphere, it is introduced here and is found in areas bordering the estuary, mainly near pines. Wikipedia-Amanita muscaria iNaturalist- Fly Agaric fly agric Cup Fungi Peziza oceanica or Peziza austrogeaster Native. Not assessed. The exact identification of the species of cup fungus found around the estuary is difficult to ascertain because it can only be achieved by studying the extremely small spores under a microscope, and then you need to be expert in the practice as there is different methodology for different species. The group as a whole are to be found on or near rotten wood and seem to tolerate of, at times, being submerged in water. The ones depicted here would have been periodically submerged in salt water for brief periods of time. Some species have even been seen growing on submerged logs. When the fruiting bodies are mature, they open to form a cup which is quite distinctive. Spores are to be found around the inside and the bowl acts as an ideal aid for dispersal with raindrops splashing and wind blowing the spores over longer distances. Wikipedia-Peziza cup fungi Golden-eye Lichen Teloschistes chrysophthalmus Native. Not threatened. This is one of the few species of lichen that occur around the estuary and Dune Garden. It is easily located because of its bright orange/yellow fruiting bodies which can be seen from quite a distance away. It grows on twigs and logs and there are at least four locations around the Ramsar site and sand dunes, mainly on Radiata pinus debris, above the high tide mark, where it can be found. Distribution of this species is reported to be mainly coastal in both Northern and Southern Hemispheres with a temperate climate with plenty of sunshine where dry conditions prevail. It is sensitive to air quality. iNaturalist-Golden-eye Lichen golden-eye Lichen

Kakīānau/ Black Swan Cygnus atratus Native. Not threatened. A large black bird (1.3m in length), the Black Swan has white wingtips which can be seen when flying. The red beak has a white band near the tip. It flies with slow wing beats, its neck outstretched, landing heavily on water and needing a good, splashing runoff to get airborne again. The Black Swan is vegetarian and feeds mostly on aquatic plants, by reaching down into the water with its long neck. When water levels are too high for it to reach the plants it normal feeds on it resorts to pasture and causes problems for farmers. It's usually found on lakes and other wide areas of fresh or brackish water, but non-breeders also inhabit estuaries. It's usually seen in flocks, the members of which communicate with low honking sounds. Females are smaller than males while juveniles are grey with black feathers coming through as they age. Parents are fiercely protective of their grey fluffy bundles so be warned. nzbirdsonline-Black Swan Kuihi/Canada Goose Branta canadensis Introduced, Not assessed. This large North American goose was first introduced to Aotearoa New Zealand in 1905 and soon spread throughout. As these geese are grazers they are frequently seen in pastoral areas but also inhabit lakes, rivers and coastal areas, especially after the moult as these provide much security as they are unable to fly for several weeks. They are considered pests in some areas. Males are much heavier than females weighing up to 8.5 kg with females several kg lighter. Their plumage is quite distinctive with the neck and head coloured black with a white cheek patch which stretches to just under the chin. Upperparts are brown while underparts are either white, a lighter shade of brown or a mixture of both. Juveniles lack the intensity of colour while goslings are a yellowish grey colour. They are noisy birds, especially when flying in the classic V formation. nzbirdsonline-Canada Goose canada g

As this page will become more lengthy as additional content is added, by clicking on the in-page menu below it will guide you towards relevant publications. If a more detailed search is required please use the search button on the home page. This will take you to all references relating to that subject on the site as a whole. Specific references are listed in that section such as all literature relating to Ramsar is listed on that page. All species covered on the site will have at least one link to more detailed information. Many of the pages on this website have referenced links to literature which give a more detailed account of the subject. The estuary is a very diverse environment and many aspects are not yet covered and, in some instances, may never be in any great detail. This section aims to provide an insight into some of those aspects with further references being added over time. Entries will be entered either chronologically as published in a series or alphabetically for general references. NZTCS Coastal Restoration Trust Ecology Fauna Flora NZTCS NEW ZEALAND THREAT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM Throughout this website and related links to species and their threat status, the New Zealand Threat Classification System is used. Below are links to the relevant documents which outline the criteria used for each category. Also, the 48 reports outlining comprehensive details of how status is attributed to each species within the taxa covered. New Zealand Threat Classification System Manual. 2022. Part 1 Assessments. New Zealand Threat Classification System Manual. 2022. Part 2 Administration. 50. Conservation status of reptiles in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2025 By Rod Hitchmough, Ben Barr, Carey Knox, Marieke Lettink, Joanne M. Monks, Geoff B. Patterson, James T. Reardon, Dylan van Winkel, Troy Makan, Pascale Michel. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 50. Department of Conservation, Wellington. 32 p. (PDF, 2,229k) 49. Conservation status of mosses in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2025 By Pascale Michel, Ryan deRegnier, Thomas Emmitt, Marley Ford, Leon Perrie, Aimee S.E. Pritchard. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 49. Department of Conservation, Wellington. 40 p. (PDF, 3,421k) 48. Conservation status of marine mammals in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2024 By Dave Lundquist, Laura Boren, Simon Childerhouse, Rochelle Constantine, Anton van Helden, Rod Hitchmough, Pascale Michel, Will Rayment and C. Scott Baker. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 48. Department of Conservation, Wellington. 25 p. (PDF, 2,187k) 47. Conservation status of chondrichthyans (chimaeras, sharks and rays) in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2024 By Clinton Duffy, Mark Erdmann, Brittany Finucci, Marc Griffiths, Robert Lewis, Karen Middlemiss, Andrew Stewart, Rod Hitchmough and Pascale Michel New Zealand Threat Classification Series 47. Department of Conservation, Wellington. 29 p. (PDF, 724k) 4 6. Conservation status of New Zealand freshwater fishes, 2023 By Nicholas R. Dunn, Gerard P. Closs, Shannan K. Crow, Bruno O. David, Jane M. Goodman, Marc Griffiths, Andrew S. Hicks, Michael J.H. Hickford, Daniel C. Jack, Jane C. Kitson, Nicholas Ling, Jonathan M. Waters, Matthew J. Wylie, Rodney A. Hitchmough and Troy Makan. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 46. Department of Conservation, Wellington. 66 p. (PDF, 735k) 45. Conservation status of indigenous aphids in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2024 By Simon Bulman, David A.J. Teulon and Pascale Michel. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 45.Department of Conservation, Wellington. 16 p. (PDF, 581k) 44. Conservation status of amphibians in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2024 By Rhys J. Burns, Doug P. Armstrong, Ben D. Bell, Amanda Haigh, Jennifer Germano, Nicolas J. Rawlence, Tertia Thurley, Rodney A. Hitchmough, Troy Makan and Pascale Michel New Zealand Threat Classification Series 44. Department of Conservation, Wellington. 19 p. (PDF, 845K) 43. Conservation status of vascular plants in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2023 By Peter J. de Lange, Jane Gosden, Shannel P. Courtney, Alexander J. Fergus, John W. Barkla, Sarah M. Beadel, Paul D. Champion, Rowan Hindmarsh-Walls, Troy Makan and Pascale Michel. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 43. Department of Conservation, Wellington.105 p. (PDF 3,177K) 42. Conservation status of New Zealand indigenous terrestrial Gastropoda (slugs and snails). Part 3. Rhytididae (carnivorous snails), 2022 By Kath Walker, Kerry Walton, Eric Edwards, Rod Hitchmough, Ian Payton, Gary Barker and Pascale Michel. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 42. Department of Conservation, Wellington. 32 p. (PDF, 4937K) 41. Conservation status of bats in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2022 By Colin O’Donnell, Kerry Borkin, Jenny Christie, Ian Davidson-Watts, Gillian Dennis Moira Pryde, Pascale Michel. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 41. Department of Conservation, Wellington. 18 p. (PDF, 783K) 40. Conservation status of indigenous marine invertebrates in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2021 By Greig Funnell, Dennis Gordon, Daniel Leduc, Troy Makan, Bruce A. Marshall, Sadie Mills, Pascale Michel, Geoff Read, Kareen Schnabel, Di Tracey and Stephen Wing. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 40. Department of Conservation, Wellington. 42p. (PDF, 517K) 39. Conservation status of Orthoptera (wētā, crickets and grasshoppers) in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2022 By Steve Trewick, Danilo Hegg, Mary Morgan-Richards, Tara Murray, Corinne Watts, Peter Johns, and Pascale Michel. New Zealand Threat ClassificationSeries 39. Department of Conservation, Wellington. 28p. (PDF, 770K) 38. Conservation status of selected species of non-lichenised agarics, boletes and russuloid fungi in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2021 By Jerry A. Cooper, Peter K. Buchanan, Pat Leonard, Lois Allison-Cooper, Peter Johnston, Mahajabeen Padamsee, Eric McKenzieand Pascale Michel. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 38. Department of Conservation, Wellington. 49 p. (PDF, 844K) 37. Conservation status of parasitic mites and ticks (Acari) in New Zealand, 2021 By Allen Heath, Jeremy Rolfe, Pascale Michel. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 37. Department of Conservation, Wellington. 23 p. (PDF, 2103K ) 36. Conservation status of birds in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2021 By Hugh A. Robertson, Karen A. Baird, Graeme P. Elliott, Rodney A. Hitchmough, Nikki J. McArthur, Troy Makan, Colin M. Miskelly, Colin. J. O’Donnell, Paul M. Sagar, R. Paul Scofield, Graeme A. Taylor and Pascale Michel. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 36. Department of Conservation, Wellington. 43 p. (PDF, 824K ) 35. Conservation status of New Zealand reptiles, 2021 By Rod Hitchmough, Ben Barr, Carey Knox, Marieke Lettink, Joanne M. Monks, Geoff B. Patterson, James T. Reardon, Dylan van Winkel, Jeremy Rolfe and Pascale MichelNew Zealand Threat Classification Series 35. Department of Conservation, Wellington. 23p. (PDF, 3,224K ) Note: This publication was updated in February 2024 to include a draft revised assessment of Oligosoma lineoocellatum (Canterbury spotted skink). 34. Conservation status of New Zealand Araneae (spiders), 2020 By Phil J. Sirvid, Cor J. Vink, Brian M. Fitzgerald, Mike D. Wakelin, Jeremy Rolfe and Pascale Michel New Zealand Threat Classification Series 34. Department of Conservation, Wellington. 33 p. (PDF, 2,955K ) 33. Conservation status of New Zealand indigenous terrestrial Gastropoda (slugs and snails), 2020. Part 2. Achatinellidae, Bothriembryontidae (pūpūharakeke), Euconulidae, Helicarionidae, Pupinidae and Vertiginidae By K. Walker, F.J. Brook, G.M. Barker, D.J. Roscoe, E. Edwards, R.A. Hitchmough, J.R. Rolfe and P. Michel New Zealand Threat Classification Series 33. Department of Conservation, Wellington. 9 p. (PDF, 3,458K ) 32. Conservation status of New Zealand indigenous terrestrial Gastropoda (slugs and snails), 2020. Part 1. Athoracophoridae (leaf-veined slugs) and Succineidae (amber snails) By G.M. Barker, F.J. Brook, K. Mahlfeld, K. Walker, D.J. Roscoe, R.A. Hitchmough, E. Edwards, J.R. Rolfe and P. Michel New Zealand Threat Classification Series 32. Department of Conservation, Wellington. 15 p. (PDF, 2,806K ) 31. Conservation status of New Zealand hornworts and liverworts, 2020 By P.J. de Lange, D. Glenny, K. Frogley, M.A.M. Renner, M. von Konrat, J.J. Engel, C. Reeb and J.R. Rolfe New Zealand Threat Classification Series 31. 30 p. (PDF 2,691K) 30. Conservation status of New Zealand macroalgae, 2019 By Wendy A. Nelson, Kate Neill, Roberta D’Archino and Jeremy R. Rolfe New Zealand Threat Classification Series 30. 33 p. (PDF 3,702K) 29. Conservation status of New Zealand marine mammals, 2019 By C.S. Baker, L. Boren, S. Childerhouse, R. Constantine, A. van Helden, D. Lundquist, W. Rayment and J.R. Rolfe New Zealand Threat Classification Series 29. 18 p. (PDF, 2,741K) Note: The conservation status of marine mammals was reviewed in 2024 and this publication is now replaced by Lundquist D., Boren L., Childerhouse S., Constantine R., van Helden A., Hitchmough R., Michel P., Rayment W., Baker C.S. (in press). Conservation status of marine mammals in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2024. New Zealand Threat Classification Series. Wellington, New Zealand. Supporting data for this upcoming publication were released in April 2024 in NZTCS database: Report Marine mammals 2024 (Linquist et al.) . 28. Conservation status of New Zealand freshwater invertebrates, 2018 By N. Grainger, J. Harding, T. Drinan, K. Collier, B. Smith, R. Death, T. Makan and J. Rolfe New Zealand Threat Classification Series 28. 25 p. (PDF, 575K) 27. Conservation status of New Zealand indigenous lichens and lichenicolous fungi, 2018 By Peter de Lange, Dan Blanchon, Allison Knight, John Elix, Robert Lücking, Kelly Frogley, Anna Harris, Jerry Cooper and Jeremy Rolfe New Zealand Threat Classification Series 27. 64 p. (PDF, 7,86K) 26. Conservation status of New Zealand Onychophora (‘peripatus’ or velvet worm), 2018 By S. Trewick, R. Hitchmough, J. Rolfe and I. Stringer New Zealand Threat Classification Series 26. 3 p. (PDF, 7,969K ) 25. Conservation status of New Zealand amphibians, 2017 By Rhys J. Burns, Ben D. Bell, Amanda Haigh, Phillip Bishop, Luke Easton, Sally Wren, Jennifer Germano, Rodney A. Hitchmough, Jeremy R. Rolfe and Troy Makan New Zealand Threat Classification Series 25. 7 p. (PDF, 8,279K ) 24. Conservation status of New Zealand freshwater fishes, 2017 By Nicholas R. Dunn, Richard M. Allibone, Gerard P. Closs, Shannan K. Crow, Bruno O. David, Jane M. Goodman, Marc Griffiths, Daniel C. Jack, Nicholas Ling, Jonathan M. Waters and Jeremy R. Rolfe. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 24. 11 p. (PDF, 7,374K ) 23. Conservation status of New Zealand chondrichthyans (chimaeras, sharks and rays), 2016 By Clinton Duffy, Malcolm Francis, Matthew Dunn, Brit Finucci, Richard Ford, Rod Hitchmough and Jeremy Rolfe. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 23. 13 p. (PDF, 7,439K ) 22. Conservation status of New Zealand indigenous vascular plants, 2017 By Peter J. de Lange, Jeremy R. Rolfe, John W. Barkla, Shannel P. Courtney, Paul D. Champion, Leon R. Perrie, Sarah M. Beadel, Kerry A. Ford, Ilse Breitwieser, Ines Schönberger, Rowan Hindmarsh-Walls, Peter B. Heenan and Kate Ladley. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 22. 82 p. (PDF, 8,580K ) 21. Conservation status of New Zealand bats, 2017. By C.F.J. O’Donnell, K.M. Borkin, J.E. Christie, B. Lloyd, S. Parsons and R.A. Hitchmough. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 21. 4 p. ( PDF, 1064K ) 20. Conservation status of New Zealand butterflies and moths (Lepidoptera), 2015 By R.J.B. Hoare, J.S. Dugdale, E.D. Edwards, G.W. Gibbs, B.H. Patrick, R.A. Hitchmough and J.R .Rolfe. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 20. 13 p. (PDF, 1149K ) 19. Conservation status of New Zealand birds, 2016 Hugh A. Robertson, Karen Baird, John E. Dowding, Graeme P. Elliott, Rodney A. Hitchmough, Colin M. Miskelly, Nikki McArthur, Colin F.J. O’Donnell, Paul M. Sagar, R. Paul Scofield; Graeme A. Taylor. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 19. 27 p. (PDF, 601K ) 18. Conservation status of New Zealand Hymenoptera, 2014 D. Ward, J. Early, F.-R. Schnitzler, R. Hitchmough, J. Rolfe, I. Stringer. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 18. 14 p. (PDF, 539K ) 17. Conservation status of New Zealand reptiles, 2015 By Rod Hitchmough, Ben Barr, Marieke Lettink, Jo Monks, James Reardon, Mandy Tocher, Dylan van Winkel and Jeremy Rolfe. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 17. 14 p. (PDF, 550K ) 16. Conservation status of New Zealand Orthoptera, 2014 By Steve Trewick, Peter Johns, Rod Hitchmough, Jeremy Rolfe and Ian Stringer 2016. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 16. 15 p. (PDF, 520K ) 15. Conservation status of New Zealand stick insects, 2014 By Thomas R. Buckley, Rod Hitchmough, Jeremy Rolfe and Ian Stringer 2016. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 15. 3 p. (PDF, 465K ) 14. Conservation status of New Zealand marine mammals, 2013 By C.S. Baker, B.L. Chilvers, S. Childerhouse, R. Constantine, R. Currey, R. Mattlin, A. Van Helden, R. Hitchmough, and J. Rolfe 2016.New Zealand Threat Classification Series 14. 18 p. (PDF, 636K ) 13. Conservation status of New Zealand mosses, 2014 By Jeremy R. Rolfe, Allan J. Fife, Jessica E. Beever, Patrick J. Brownsey and Rodney A. Hitchmough 2016. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 13. 12 p. (PDF, 583K ) 12. Conservation status of New Zealand fleas, 2014 By Allen C.G. Heath, Ian Stringer, Rod Hitchmough and Jeremy Rolfe 2015. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 12. 5 p. (PDF, 552K ) 11. Conservation status of New Zealand hornworts and liverworts, 2014 Peter J. De Lange, David Glenny, John Braggins, Matt Renner, Matt von Konrat, John Engel, Catherine Reeb and Jeremy Rolfe 2015. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 11. 31 p. (PDF, 686K ) 10. Conservation status of New Zealand earthworms, 2014. Thomas R. Buckley, Stéphane Boyer, Scott Bartlam, Rod Hitchmough, Jeremy Rolfe and Ian Stringer 2015. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 10. 10 p. (PDF, 575K ) 9. Conservation status of New Zealand marine invertebrates, 2013 Debbie Freeman, Kareen Schnabel, Bruce Marshall, Dennis Gordon, Stephen Wing, Di Tracey and Rod Hitchmough 2014. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 9. 20 p. (PDF, 664K ) 8. Conservation status of New Zealand freshwater invertebrates, 2013 Natasha Grainger, Kevin Collier, Rod Hitchmough, Jon Harding, Brian Smith and Darin Sutherland New Zealand Threat Classification Series 8. 28 p. (PDF, 748K ) Supplemental data (XLSX, 119K ) 7. Conservation status of New Zealand freshwater fish, 2013. Jane M. Goodman, Nicholas R. Dunn, Peter J. Ravenscroft, Richard M. Allibone, Jacques A.T. Boubee, Bruno O. David, Marc Griffiths, Nicholas Ling, Rodney A. Hitchmough and Jeremy R. Rolfe 2014. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 7. 12 p. (PDF, 599K ) Supplemental data (XLSX, 48K ) 6. Conservation status of New Zealand bats, 2012. C. O’Donnell, J. Christie, B. Lloyd, S. Parsons and R. Hitchmough 2013. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 6. 8 p. (PDF, 552K ) Supplemental data (XLSX, 21K ) 5. Conservation status of New Zealand frogs, 2013. By Don Newman, Ben Bell, Phillip Bishop, Rhys Burns, Amanda Haigh and Rod Hitchmough 2013. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 5. 10 p. (PDF, 566K ) Supplemental data (XLSX, 23K ) 4. Conservation status of New Zealand birds, 2012. By Hugh Robertson, John Dowding, Graeme Elliott, Rod Hitchmough, Colin Miskelly, Colin O’Donnell, Ralph Powlesland, Paul Sagar, Paul Scofield, Graeme Taylor 2013. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 4. 22 p. (PDF, 620K ) Supplemental data (XLSX, 98K ) 3. Conservation status of New Zealand indigenous vascular plants, 2012. By Peter de Lange, Jeremy Rolfe, Paul Champion, Shannel Courtney, Peter Heenan, John Barkla, Ewen Cameron, David Norton and Rodney Hitchmough 2013. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 3. 70 p. (PDF, 793K ) Supplemental data (XLSX, 410K ) 2. Conservation status of New Zealand reptiles, 2012. By R. Hitchmough, P. Anderson, B. Barr, J. Monks, M. Lettink, J. Reardon, M. Tocher and T. Whitaker 2013. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 2. 16 p. (PDF, 650K ) Supplemental data (XLSX, 39K ) 1. Summary of changes to the conservation status of taxa in the 2008-11 New Zealand Threat Classification System listing cycle. Rod Hitchmough 2013. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 1. 20 p. (PDF, 653K ) Although now known as the Coastal Restoration Trust , it was formed in 2007 as the Dune Restoration Trust and some of their literature still bares its previous name. This is the go-to organisation for coastal information, and its website can be assessed here. Below are links to some of the more useful information pertaining to our area especially the section titled Dune Restoration which has a number of drop-down tabs. Unfortunately, their Coastal Restoration Handbook is sectional which allows for easy additions to be made but can't be printed as one volume. The Handbook should be consulted for the full range of subjects, but the following are perhaps the most useful for our location. A series of videos are produced which provide a useful reference source and the 14 provide a wealth of information which is well worth a view. Spinifex: Ecology covers the ecology, habitat and growth while Establishment provides information on seed collection, propagation and establishment. Pingao: Ecology covers ecology, distribution and habitat while Establishment covers seed collection, propagation and establishment. Ground cover plants for restoration of back dunes. Trees and shrubs to use on the back dunes. Wiwi : Habitat and propagation. Sand Daphne : Restoration of a plant in decline. Coastal Restoration Trust COASTAL RESTORATION TRUST ECOLOGY Ecology Butcher, Michael Robert. 1976. Some Aspects of the Ecology of the Intertidal Benthic Biota of the Manawatū River Estuary. Thesis presented as partial fulfilment of a masters degree at Massey University. https://ref.coastalrestorationtrust.org.nz/site/assets/files/9665/02 Davis, Dr L.J. 1988.Birds of the Manawatū Estuary and the implications of the spread of Spartina cordgrass. Ornithological Society of New Zealand Ltd McArthur, N. 2001. Problems Associated with the Management and Conservation of Estuaries in New Zealand. Project for New Zealand's Environmental Issues (121.211) Teng, Jaime. 2009. The Manawat ū Estuary. Individual case study 121.103 New Zealand's Natural Heritage. Massey University FAUNA Fauna Imber, M.J. 1960. Hudsonian godwit at the Manawatū Estuary. Notornis, 9 (3), 107-108 Ling, N. 2001. New Zealand mudfish: a guide, part 1 , part 2 , part 3. Powell, Michelle. 2011. Seasonal and Spacial Variation of Nicon aestuariensis (Polychaeta : Nereiddae) at the Manawatū Estuary, New Zealand. Thesis presented as partial fulfilment of a masters degree at Massey University. Wildbase takes shag and penguin home to Foxton Beach. Massey University News 6/7/2018 FLORA Flora Asher, R.A. & Stark,J.D 1988. Spartina spraying environmental monitoring Manawatū River estuary pre-spray survey (15-16 February, 1988). Department of Conservation, Palmerston North. Cawthorn Institute, Nelson . Not available electronically. Department of Conservation. Spartina. Factsheet Ornithological Society of New Zealand. 1987. Spartina Cord Grass in the Manawatū Estuary. Not available electronically. Stringer, I.A.N., Potter, M.A. & Barker, R. 1992. Spartina spraying environmental monitoring, Manawatū River estuary post-spray survey (31st January 1992) Department of Ecology, Massey University, Palmerston North. Not available electronically.

Half-star Goodenia heenanii Endemic. At risk-declining. Now found only from Waikawa Beach to Tangimoana, this is a star of the Dune Garden, endemic to the Manawatu coast. It was formerly known in a few locations toward Whanganui. Although it is effectively found nowhere else, it is in almost every single dune wetland, including some so small they are hardly recognisable as such. These ephemeral dune wetlands are mostly evolving toward larger plant species, which is why this species is on the threatened species list. A factor in favour of Goodenia heenanii is that ephemeral dune wetlands come and go over periods of a few years, which makes life difficult for larger, less adaptable species. This species is an early pioneer in newly re-establishing dune wetlands on this coast. iNaturalist-Goodenia heenanii NZPCN-Selliera rotundifolia Old taxonomy used by this site.

New Zealand Celery Apium prostratum var.filiforme Native. Not threatened. A delicate variant of the more common Sea Celery and as the name implies it is edible, but you’d need a fair amount to make an impression in a meal. It is one of the few species that can live in the lower story of the dense jungle Oioi creates in estuaries, which is mostly where you’ll find it in the salt marsh areas of the estuary. A mainly prostrate, sprawling plant of coastal and lowland environments but occasionally montane regions. Common on rock ledges, boulder falls, cliff faces, in peaty turf, salt-marshes, within estuaries, on mud banks, around brackish ponds, and lagoons. Also found in freshwater systems along streams and rivers and in wet hollows. iNaturalist-Apium prostratum filiforme NZPCN-Apium prostratum prostratum var filiforme

Piripiri/Biddy-biddy Acaena novae-zelandiae Native. Not threatened. This member of the rose family is common throughout the Ramsar dunes, in both wet and dry locations, it is also found in a few locations in the saltmarsh areas of the estuary. Known around the rest of the world as the weed from New Zealand it has been classified as a noxious weed in many countries, being capable of growing in a wide variety of habitats ranging from coastal to alpine regions. Their natural distribution, besides Aotearoa New Zealand is Australia and New Guinea. It has been introduced into the United Kingdom and is now classified as an invasive species there. Anyone who has been tramping is familiar with the success of Biddy-biddy’s burrs in propagating the species. The inflorescence (group of flowers arranged on a stem) contains up to a hundred flowers, each with four hooked barbs. Apart from clothing, they are dispersed by, not only livestock, but any wind-blown vegetation that they can attach themselves too. iNaturalist-Acaena novae-zelandiae nzpcn-Acaena novae-zelandiae

Harakeke/New Zealand Flax Phormium tenax Endemic. Not threatened. Very much a dune wetland species, it is currently a small factor in the Dune Garden suite of plants but over time it may play a bigger role as one of the successor plants in the evolution of dune wetlands. On a broader note, it is an abundant species throughout Aotearoa New Zealand, associated with damp areas but is also commonly planted in gardens and is in abundance around Foxton. Foxton has a rich history associated with this plant, from early times right through to the present, although not so much now but there is still a museum dedicated to the history of its uses, principally its fibre. There is not a website, but details can be found here and also a brief history within this site . Flowers grow on spikes and as they age, seeds pods develop. 2024 was a mast year with most plants flowering at the same time and producing abundant seed. NZPCN-Phormium tenax

Shore Cotula Leptinella dioica Endemic. Not threatened. Generally uncommon in the Manawatū Estuary, at time of writing there is a healthy patch toward the spit off the end of the Dawick Street platform, and a few small patches on the south bank. The New Zealand Plant Conservation Network entry suggests it has a long flowering season from October to June but here at the estuary it seems to bloom for only a brief period in early summer. Flowers can be either green or yellow but it is the leaves which are a distinctive feature of this plant. They are variable but mostly elongated, fleshy with cuts or lobes and either light green, green, blue-green or wine red in colour. NZPCN-Leptinella dioica iN aturalist-Leptinella dioica

Goosefoot Oxybasis ambigua Native. At risk-declining. This species can be found in a few estuaries on this coast, including at a few points in the Manawatū Estuary, but since it is a seasonal plant, you’re best off seeking it in the summer half of the year. It is a succulent member of the family of saltbushes. The profuse quantity of seeds produced are dispersed by both wind and water. Distribution is patchy in the Southern Hemisphere but extensive, taking in Chile, Easter Island, the Australian states of New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia plus both North and South Island of Aotearoa New Zealand. NZPCN-Oxybasis ambigua iNaturalist-Oxybasis ambigua