Seaweek – Harbourview Wetlands Guided Walk

A guided walk hosted by Forest & Bird Motu Manawa Restoration Group to explore Harbourview’s coastal wetland wilderness on Te Atatu Peninsula in celebration of Seaweek.

Harbourview’s wetlands are a rare and remarkable environment. The area is vast—much bigger than many people realize. It represents the last major unreclaimed wetlands of the Upper Waitemata Harbour. There are hectares of freshwater swamp and saline marshland featuring photogenic multi-coloured swards of the original species of native vegetation.

The signature native bird species we might glimpse are fernbird and banded rail. At low tide, the nearby Whau River estuary transforms itself into a different world with vast exposed sand and mud flats that feed tens of thousands of wading and migratory birds such as godwits. There’s lots of interest about this wild and beautiful place in the heart of Auckland city, with many opportunities to observe the flora, fauna and geology along the way.

Directions for meeting up will be provided by email to registered participants. Bookings essential and places strictly limited to 25 guests maximum. Please contact motumanawa@gmaill.com to register your request for attendance and receive further information.

A medium level of personal fitness is the least required to walk through mud, scrub, and broken ground for approximately two hours. Gumboots or sturdy footwear mandatory and thick trousers recommended. Not suitable for young children or any persons who have disabilities, health issues or low fitness levels. Bring drinking water and wear sunblock, sunglasses and sunhats. Cameras, binoculars and telescopes recommended for bird watching.

Free but gold coin donations appreciated. Any donations will be passed on to Forest & Bird Waitakere branch. 25 persons maximum as guests on the guided walk. Free car parking is available on site, but guests will need to walk approximately one kilometre back to it at the end of the guided walk.