Environment – Wins for wildlife

From the windswept dunes of Pākiri to the tidal estuaries of Mangawhai, native wildlife is breathing a little easier thanks to the tireless efforts of a dedicated community. The Shorebirds Trust, through its visionary Conservation Coast initiative, is celebrating several major conservation milestones that reflect the power of collaboration, commitment and care for the natural world.Since its launch, the Conservation Coast project has successfully removed more than 10,000 invasive predators from the Mangawhai–Pākiri stretch.

This achievement is the result of collective action – from backyard trappers and neighbourhood groups, to large-scale efforts by Tara Iti Golf Club, Auckland Regional Parks, the Department of Conservation, and Te Arai Links.Invasive predators such as stoats, rats and hedgehogs have long contributed to the decline and even extinction of native species across Aotearoa. But here on the coast, people are coming together to reverse that trend, and the results speak for themselves.

Together, we’re creating a coastline where native wildlife can thrive once again. This is about people power, about communities stepping up to protect what makes our home so special.And the impact is visible.

Recent lizard monitoring has revealed a 37.5% increase in the presence of the at-risk shore skink between 2020 and 2024 including a remarkable 76% boost in juveniles. These beautiful, coastal skinks are unique to the north-eastern beaches of the North Island and come in a range of colours from silver and gold to deep browns and near-black.

Thanks to focused predator control, their future is starting to look brighter.Bird lovers also have reason to celebrate. This summer was a record-breaking breeding season for the tara iti (NZ fairy tern), with 17 chicks fledging.

With fewer than 40 individuals in the population, every chick is a triumph, and each predator removed is one less threat to this precious species.Beyond the beaches, locals have also reported a welcome return of native birds from nearby island sanctuaries such as Taranga (Hen Island) and Hauturu. Increasing sightings of kākā, korimako (bellbird) and even kākāriki suggest that the hard work in our communities is paying off.

This progress wouldn’t be possible without support from Auckland Council, Northland Regional Council, Rodney Local Board, Department of Conservation, Te Uri o Hau kaitiaki, volunteers, and collaborating organisations like the Piroa Conservation Trust. It’s a true example of what can happen when iwi, local government, environmental groups and everyday New Zealanders unite around a shared goal.The Shorebirds Trust wants everyone to know: you can be part of this story.

Whether it’s checking a trap in your backyard or lending a hand on a trapline, every action counts.Our native species are worth fighting for. We’re proving that change is possible – every trap set, every chick counted, and every person involved brings us closer to a future where our coastal wildlife flourishes.

To find out how you can get involved, visit the dedicated Conservation Coast website www.conservationcoast.org, or contact the Shorebirds Trust directly to join the growing community working to restore our taonga species for future generations.

The Shorebirds Trust is investing in cutting edge scientific research, funding and leading essential conservation initiatives, and rallying the community to restore coastal biodiversity in the Mangawhai-Pākiri area. It’s science in action, backed by a community that cares. And with every season, the vision of a thriving coastal ecosystem grows stronger.

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