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.

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

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

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.

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

Water Quality The quality of water flowing through the estuary from the adjacent towns and land and from the entire upstream length of the Manawatū River and its tributaries has a profound effect on the health of the habitat for all forms of life in the estuary. The Manawatū Estuary Management Team has formed a Water Quality group that is looking into gaining a good understanding of the water quality and what is going on that could improve it. As solid information is gained, it will be referenced on this page. There are four regularly monitored swimming spots within the area and testing runs from November to the end of April. These are carried out by Horizons Regional Council and results given on the LAWA website. To view a particular spot, click on each site picture to view details, bearing in mind that they are not monitored outside of the summer/autumn period. Once on the site, click on the weekly/long term button to see if there is any update. Other useful information is also viewable once on this site is open. The HDC Local Waters Combined Bylaw 2025 came into effect on 1 July 2025 and means there is now one Bylaw covering all local Horowhenua water services. Previously there were three different Bylaws (Water Supply, Wastewater and Trade Waste) and no Stormwater Bylaw. All previous Bylaws can be viewed through Local Bylaws and Policies.

Pūkeko/Australasian Swamp Hen Porphyrio melanotus Native. Not threatened. With their large size, bright blue plumage and raucous behaviour, Pūkeko are a familiar bird around the area. They are an abundant species throughout most regions of Aotearoa New Zealand. They have a growing presence being observed in margins bordering the estuary. They are numerous in the damp paddocks in and around Foxton Beach, often forming groups of six to ten birds out of the breeding season. Their breeding system make them a very interesting species to study. Many form monogamous pairs (1 male/1 female) while others are can be polygynandy where both males and females have multiple partners. Pūkeko are known to breed at any time of the year if conditions are favourable and it is not uncommon to see chicks during the winter months. Clutch size is up to six eggs but can be many more if additional females lay in the same nest. Mainly vegetarian, feeding on a variety of grasses, sedges and rushes, they also catch small animals and will feed on carrion. If items can't be swallowed whole, they will be gripped in a foot and ripped apart. nzbirdsonline-Pukeko

Matuku moana/White-faced Heron Egretta novaehollandiae Native. Not threatened. The White-faced Heron is the most common species of heron and is found throughout the country. They are a relatively new species to Aotearoa New Zealand, being self-introduced from Australia in the late 1940's. With the abundance of food and very little competition from similar species, population expansion was rapid. These elegant birds are solitary when foraging for food as they walk slowly in shallow water waiting for any sign of movement. Once detected, prey is seized with a rapid lunge of the beak. Food consists of fish and crabs in shallow water, also frogs, lizards and worms. A bulky mass of sticks and twigs usually constitute a nest and are generally built in the crowns of trees, usually. Clutch size varies from three to five eggs but usually only two or three chicks survive. They nest annually in the Foxton Beach area and young can be seen around the estuary from late spring onwards. nzbirdsonline-White-faced Heron white heron Kōtuku/White Heron Ardea modesta Native. Threatened-nationally critical. While widespread in Australia, the South Pacific and Asia where it is common, there is only one breeding colony in Aotearoa New Zealand and that is at Waitangiroto Nature Reserve in Westland. This was already established when discovered in 1865 and the population is currently thought to be around 200. During the winter these disperse around the country., occasionally being seen at the estuary. It is an elegant species with pure white plumage sporting a bright yellow beak and striking yellow eye. It is a revered species because of its elusiveness that in Māoridom there is a saying "he k ōtuku rerenga tahi" which literally means the bird of a single flight or once in a lifetime sighting. The similar Little Egret is much smaller and has a black bill and also turns up at the estuary from time to time. Diet consists of small fish, crabs, frogs and aquatic invertebrates. nzbirdsonline-White Heron bittern Matuku hūrepo/Australasian Bittern Botauris poiciloptilus Native. Threatened - nationally critical. This rare species is found in Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia and New Caledonia where it inhabits areas near water that are heavily vegetated. Once said to inhabit suitable areas around the "Loop" with reports of up to seven being sighted at various times. Unfortunately, a brief survey in 2024/5 failed to record any, as did a similar one around the Estuary. It is hoped to undertake another, more thorough one in the 2025/6 breeding season. There is an abundance of small tuna (elvers) around the edges so food should not be a problem in raising any young. Water quality might be a problem though. During the breeding season males "boom", to attract females to their territories and it is this call that gives them away, as does their characteristic silhouette when flying. If you are lucky enough to see one, please report it using the contact form on support MET page. NZbirdsonline-Australasian Bittern Conservation management of the critically endangered matuku-hūrepo/Australasian bittern: a review of threats and preliminary management techniques. By: Emma M. Williams. Department of Conservation Science for Conservation 341. 64 p. (PDF, 10,309)

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 on 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) meet every six months to discuss various aspects associated with the area. This comprises 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 and interested local residents from within the region. This enthusiastic group meet every six months to update on what has been achieved and plan for the forth-coming 6 months. 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. 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.

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

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

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