The loss of coastal habitat from development and erosion means that fewer high-tide areas are available for shorebirds to roost and breed across the Auckland region.

At Snells Beach, protection for endangered shorebirds would greatly improve with the proposed relocation of the picnic table at the northern end of Snells Beach to the area close to the Ahi Kaa walkway bridge.

Rodney Local Board Chair Brent Bailey says the Snells Beach wildlife is spectacular with over 20 species of shorebirds and waders using the area, but this exceptional nature experience and habitat is under threat from recreational use.

“We need to learn how to share the beach with our wildlife and it really is up to us to do everything we can to protect shorebirds reliant on the shore for their survival.”

Shorebirds visiting Snells Beach include threatened and at-risk species such as Kuaka (bar-tailed godwit, Tūturiwhatu (Northern New Zealand dotterel), Tōrea pango (variable oystercatchers), and at times the critically endangered tara iti (New Zealand fairy tern).

The shorebirds are trying to roost close to the northern most picnic table but are at risk from being frequently disturbed by people and dogs also using the space.

Bailey says, “It is a real worry because should the birds abandon this site there are limited alternative roost areas for them to use.

“We have been advised that the best solution is to move the picnic table near to the walkway bridge and away from the roost area, and to extend the potential high-tide roosting habitat where possible."

The shorebird proposal to improve the roosting habitat will:

• remove a short length about 90m of the footpath
• create a new picnic area about 90m further south from the current picnic area
• create an open area where the picnic table is currently situated that shorebirds can use as additional roosting habitat
• create a buffer zone between the new picnic area and roosting site filled with low stature coastal plants, native shrubs and grasses
• include a soft barrier such as a rope balustrade
• install information panels about the shorebirds and the unique Snells Beach coastal ecosystem.

Bailey says the local board hopes the Snells Beach community will support the proposal, and if they have any feedback, they should email [email protected]

The Snells Beach Shorebird Roosting Proposal [6.6MB] shows the current and proposed picnic table area.