Latest news with #CoastalReservesManagementPlan
Scoop
01-07-2025
- General
- Scoop
Birds Of A Feather Flock Together On Coastal Beaches
Press Release – Wellington City Council The Wellington coastline is a vital refuge for many indigenous manu (birds),37 native bird species to be exact, with more than half (20 species) classified as threatened or at risk. Coinciding with Wellington City Council releasing its draft Coastal Reserves Management Plan (Tātou ki Uta) for feedback, the annual Coastal Bird survey has been released with a warning for the future. The Wellington coastline is a vital refuge for many indigenous manu (birds),37 native bird species to be exact, with more than half (20 species) classified as threatened or at risk. Since 2018, annual surveys along 55 kilometers of Wellington's coastline from Petone Beach to Oteranga Bay have identified four key areas essential for indigenous coastal bird populations. The great news is that despite the urban nature of much of the coast, these areas support rare breeding colonies and critical nesting habitats for species like the kawau tikitiki, pohowera (banded dotterel), and matuku moana (reef heron). Seven are considered regionally critical, including the pakahā (fluttering shearwater), māpunga (black shag), kawau tikitiki (spotted shag), matuku moana (reef heron), kārearea (NZ falcon), tarāpuka (black-billed gull), and taranui (Caspian tern). Wellington City Council's Urban Ecology Manager Daniela Biaggio says each of these coastal areas play a critical role in the survival of Wellington's indigenous birds. 'By understanding and respecting these natural spaces, we can help protect the region's unique biodiversity. Whether you're visiting for a scenic view, a fishing trip, or just to enjoy the coast, taking care to minimise disturbance to these bird habitats goes a long way in preserving Wellington's coastal bird populations for generations to come. 'Human disturbance from off-road vehicles, fishing, and other activities threatens sensitive breeding grounds, especially for ground-nesting birds. The last remaining important breeding areas for our native coastal manu are areas with limited access, ruggedness and remoteness which tells us that with a bit more care in how we share the coast with this taonga species we may be rewarded and encounter them more often.' Coastal birds can be big travellers and the total numbers of kawaupaka (little shags)and kawau tūī (little black shag) inthe harbour during winter far exceed the size of breeding colonies present in the Wellington region, which suggests many of these winter visitors must be arriving from breeding sites outside of the Wellington region. While Zealandia is celebrated for its forest bird conservation, it also plays a crucial role in supporting coastal birds through its wetland restoration, as does Predator Free Wellington's efforts in eliminating threats to nesting birds. Climate change poses an escalating threat, with 58 percent of threatened species impacted by human-induced environmental changes. Wellington's leadership recognises the urgency to integrate climate resilience and biodiversity protection into coastal management. Wellington City Council and mana whenua are developing Tātou ki Uta, a new Coastal Reserves Management Plan to guide the management, protection, and enhancement of Wellington's coastal reserves, parks, and beaches. The public is invited to share their ideas and feedback to help shape this plan. To participate and stay informed, visit the Let's Talk page. Coastal Reserves Management Plan | Let's Talk Oruaiti Reserve: Oruaiti Reserve on the Miramar Peninsula is home to Wellington's only mainland nesting colony of the kawau tikitiki (spotted shag). The reserve's steep cliffs and rocky stacks provide safe breeding grounds for this species, as well as tarāpunga (red-billed gulls) and tara (white-fronted terns). Predator Free Wellington efforts have successfully eliminated rats, stoats, and weasels here, greatly improving nesting success, off lead dogs however remain a threat. Taputeranga Island: Taputeranga Island is a key breeding area for the rare matuku moana (reef heron), hosting around 20 percent of the region's reef heron population. The island's rocky platforms provide convenient access to feeding areas, helping the herons care for their young without long foraging trips. Taputeranga also supports nesting red-billed gulls and variable oystercatchers. Its isolation keeps disturbances low, making it a vital sanctuary for these coastal birds. Wellington South Coast (Oteranga Bay to Te Rimurapa): This stretch of coastline supports important populations of pohowera (banded dotterel) and pīhoihoi (New Zealand pipit), representing 8 percent and 13 percent of the regional totals respectively. The birds nest and feed on the open beaches and nearby grasslands. However, recreational activities like off-road driving cause disturbances that threaten breeding success. Managing human impact is essential to protect these vulnerable species. Southern End of Wellington International Airport Runway: The gravelly foreshore at the southern end of the Wellington Airport runway provides the only breeding habitat for pohowera (banded dotterels) on the city's eastern coast. The open gravel and herbfields offer ideal nesting conditions, allowing these birds to breed away from many predators and urban threats. Maintaining this habitat is crucial to support their continued presence in the area.
Scoop
30-06-2025
- Scoop
Birds Of A Feather Flock Together On Coastal Beaches
Coinciding with Wellington City Council releasing its draft Coastal Reserves Management Plan (Tātou ki Uta) for feedback, the annual Coastal Bird survey has been released with a warning for the future. The Wellington coastline is a vital refuge for many indigenous manu (birds),37 native bird species to be exact, with more than half (20 species) classified as threatened or at risk. Since 2018, annual surveys along 55 kilometers of Wellington's coastline from Petone Beach to Oteranga Bay have identified four key areas essential for indigenous coastal bird populations. The great news is that despite the urban nature of much of the coast, these areas support rare breeding colonies and critical nesting habitats for species like the kawau tikitiki, pohowera (banded dotterel), and matuku moana (reef heron). Seven are considered regionally critical, including the pakahā (fluttering shearwater), māpunga (black shag), kawau tikitiki (spotted shag), matuku moana (reef heron), kārearea (NZ falcon), tarāpuka (black-billed gull), and taranui (Caspian tern). Wellington City Council's Urban Ecology Manager Daniela Biaggio says each of these coastal areas play a critical role in the survival of Wellington's indigenous birds. 'By understanding and respecting these natural spaces, we can help protect the region's unique biodiversity. Whether you're visiting for a scenic view, a fishing trip, or just to enjoy the coast, taking care to minimise disturbance to these bird habitats goes a long way in preserving Wellington's coastal bird populations for generations to come. 'Human disturbance from off-road vehicles, fishing, and other activities threatens sensitive breeding grounds, especially for ground-nesting birds. The last remaining important breeding areas for our native coastal manu are areas with limited access, ruggedness and remoteness which tells us that with a bit more care in how we share the coast with this taonga species we may be rewarded and encounter them more often.' Coastal birds can be big travellers and the total numbers of kawaupaka (little shags)and kawau tūī (little black shag) inthe harbour during winter far exceed the size of breeding colonies present in the Wellington region, which suggests many of these winter visitors must be arriving from breeding sites outside of the Wellington region. While Zealandia is celebrated for its forest bird conservation, it also plays a crucial role in supporting coastal birds through its wetland restoration, as does Predator Free Wellington's efforts in eliminating threats to nesting birds. Climate change poses an escalating threat, with 58 percent of threatened species impacted by human-induced environmental changes. Wellington's leadership recognises the urgency to integrate climate resilience and biodiversity protection into coastal management. Wellington City Council and mana whenua are developing Tātou ki Uta, a new Coastal Reserves Management Plan to guide the management, protection, and enhancement of Wellington's coastal reserves, parks, and beaches. The public is invited to share their ideas and feedback to help shape this plan. To participate and stay informed, visit the Let's Talk page. Coastal Reserves Management Plan | Let's Talk Oruaiti Reserve: Oruaiti Reserve on the Miramar Peninsula is home to Wellington's only mainland nesting colony of the kawau tikitiki (spotted shag). The reserve's steep cliffs and rocky stacks provide safe breeding grounds for this species, as well as tarāpunga (red-billed gulls) and tara (white-fronted terns). Predator Free Wellington efforts have successfully eliminated rats, stoats, and weasels here, greatly improving nesting success, off lead dogs however remain a threat. Taputeranga Island: Taputeranga Island is a key breeding area for the rare matuku moana (reef heron), hosting around 20 percent of the region's reef heron population. The island's rocky platforms provide convenient access to feeding areas, helping the herons care for their young without long foraging trips. Taputeranga also supports nesting red-billed gulls and variable oystercatchers. Its isolation keeps disturbances low, making it a vital sanctuary for these coastal birds. Wellington South Coast (Oteranga Bay to Te Rimurapa): This stretch of coastline supports important populations of pohowera (banded dotterel) and pīhoihoi (New Zealand pipit), representing 8 percent and 13 percent of the regional totals respectively. The birds nest and feed on the open beaches and nearby grasslands. However, recreational activities like off-road driving cause disturbances that threaten breeding success. Managing human impact is essential to protect these vulnerable species. Southern End of Wellington International Airport Runway: The gravelly foreshore at the southern end of the Wellington Airport runway provides the only breeding habitat for pohowera (banded dotterels) on the city's eastern coast. The open gravel and herbfields offer ideal nesting conditions, allowing these birds to breed away from many predators and urban threats. Maintaining this habitat is crucial to support their continued presence in the area.
Scoop
04-06-2025
- General
- Scoop
Public Invited To Dive In And Share Views On 10-year Coastal Plan
Wellington City Council and mana whenua are calling on residents to help shape the future of the Pōneke coastline – a taonga of the city. Public consultation on Tātou ki Uta – the draft Coastal Reserves Management Plan – is now open until midday Tuesday 5 August 2025. Covering coastal areas from Oriental Bay to Red Rocks, Tātou ki Uta sets out a 10-year plan for how the city and its people will care for, protect, and continue to enjoy our coastal reserves, beaches, public parks, and amenities like tracks, boat ramps, and public toilets. 'Our coastal reserves are a taonga, a treasure, and their future management must reflect the aspirations of Wellingtonians,' says Mayor Tory Whanau. 'We've worked closely with our community and Takai Here partners to create a draft plan that is integrated and forward-looking. This public consultation is an invitation for every Wellingtonian to help shape the future of our coastal spaces,' adds Mayor Whanau. Councillor Teri O'Neill, Chair of the Social, Cultural, and Economic Committee, says it's important to have your say. 'Our coastline is where so many of us feel most grounded; a place to meet friends and whānau, swim with the dog, or take in the wildlife around us. We've heard how much people care about the dunes, kororā (penguin) habitats, and cultural stories of these places. Now we want your voice in how we care for these taonga for the next decade.' The draft plan includes over 80 proposed actions, ranging from practical upgrades like improved toilets and tracks, to long-term efforts towards erosion control, protection of wildlife, restoring Māori names to reserves, and planning for climate adaptation in high-risk areas. Council has worked closely with mana whenua partners Ngāti Toa and Taranaki Whānui to develop the draft plan. The name Tātou ki Uta, gifted by mana whenua, means 'all of us on the land' and speaks to the shared responsibility of both iwi and the wider community in caring for the coast. Rawiri Faulkner, Pou Toa Matarau, of Ngāti Toa Rangatira, says the coastal environment is incredibly important to Ngāti Toa. 'We welcome the opportunity to strengthen our connection to the places we consider significant and to ensure our obligations to protect our taonga as kaitiaki is enhanced. 'We invite the community to participate in this process and join the council in ensuring our coastal environment is able to be enjoyed by current and future generations.' Tiamana | Chairperson Taranaki Whānui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika Te Whatanui Winiata says Taranaki Whānui is pleased to be a part of a kaupapa that once again highlights the importance of kotahitanga. 'Kotahitanga is working in partnership to maintain the cultural significance of our coastal areas. Kotahitanga is having a shared view on protecting our coastal areas. Kotahitanga is sharing in the development of the plan for our coastal areas. 'Taranaki Whānui is delighted with the expressions of kotahitanga with the Council and we look forward to more opportunities to collaborate.' Public consultation is open from Thursday 5 June to midday Tuesday 5 August 2025. You can have your say by: Completing the online survey at Filling out a paper submission form available online and at all Council libraries. Emailing coastalplan@ The full draft plan is available to read on Let's Talk or you can find a copy in Te Awe Library. Whether you're a surfer, swimmer, diver, dog walker, jogger, environmentalist, community volunteer, or a proud Wellingtonian, this plan is for everyone – and we want to know if we've got it right.
