23/08/2026
Protecting Ōrere Point’s Shorebirds: Protecting Our Intertidal Ecosystem
Ōrere Point’s shorebirds are an important part of a healthy coastal ecosystem. Their presence is not only valuable for birdlife — the way they feed and forage in intertidal areas can also contribute to healthier coastal habitats and support the shellfish communities that depend on them.
Shorebirds and healthy intertidal areas
As shorebirds forage across mudflats and other intertidal areas, they disturb and turn over the surface sediments while searching for food. This natural activity can help improve sediment conditions by disturbing compacted surfaces and contributing to the movement and mixing of sediment and organic material.
Healthy, functioning intertidal areas provide important habitat for shellfish and other marine life. Protecting shorebirds therefore helps maintain a natural ecological process that contributes to the health and resilience of the wider coastal environment.
Why disturbance matters
Shorebirds use Ōrere Point as an important place to feed, rest and, at certain times, nest. When birds are repeatedly disturbed, they may be forced to stop feeding or leave areas where they would otherwise rest and recover.
Dogs and people can cause significant disturbance when they approach feeding or resting birds. Even when a bird simply flies away, repeated disturbance can use valuable energy and reduce the time available for feeding and resting.
Mammalian predators can also pose a serious threat, particularly to eggs, chicks and birds that are nesting or resting. Keeping shorebird habitat safe from predators and unnecessary disturbance is therefore an important part of protecting these species.
Following the rules protects wildlife
Residents & Visitors have a role to play in protecting its shorebirds. Auckland Council bylaws relating to dogs and activities around wildlife areas must be followed.
Keeping dogs under control and away from protected bird areas, respecting signs and giving birds plenty of space are simple actions that can make a real difference.
New Zealand’s Wildlife Act also provides legal protection for our native species, including shorebirds that are nesting, feeding & resting. Protecting our birds is not simply a matter of being considerate — it is also a responsibility under New Zealand law.
Community groups working towards the same outcome
Environmental restoration is most effective when the community works together. Different groups may focus on different parts of the environment, but their efforts are interconnected.
The Ōrere Marine Initiative contributes to understanding,protecting & improving the marine and coastal environment.
OAR- doing riparian planting' helps restore vegetation along waterways, reducing erosion and helping to protect water quality before it reaches the coast.
The Ōrere Point Dotterel conservation work focuses on protecting shorebirds and their habitat.
Together, these initiatives contribute to one shared objective: improving the health of the Ōrere Point ecosystem for wildlife, marine life and the wider community.
By supporting each other and recognising how these activities are connected, community groups can achieve much more than working independently.
A shared responsibility for the future-
A healthy coastline depends on many connected parts working together. Shorebird protection, predator control, riparian planting, marine conservation and responsible recreation all contribute to the same bigger picture.
By working together, local community groups and residents can help create an environment where shorebirds can thrive, intertidal habitats remain healthy, shellfish populations are supported, and the Ōrere Point ecosystem becomes stronger and more resilient for future generations.
Protect the birds.
Restore the land.
Care for the coast.
Work together for a healthier Ōrere Point.
