The Northern New Zealand dotterel, or tūturiwhatu, is a stunning shorebird found only in New Zealand. With a population of just 2,500, these birds are classified as threatened and face a number of challenges to their survival. Their nests, which are simply scrapes in the sand, are highly vulnerable to predators like rats, stoats, and cats, as well as to the actions of careless beachgoers. Human activity, including coastal development and dogs running loose on beaches, is another significant threat to their fragile numbers.

Despite these challenges, the future of the tūturiwhatu is looking brighter thanks to dedicated community-led initiatives, such as the Waiwera Dotterel Minders Group. Supported by Restore Hibiscus and Bays, this passionate group has been instrumental in protecting dotterel nests and chicks in Waiwera.

The group has taken a proactive approach to safeguard these unique birds. Some of their key activities include:

Fencing nests: This helps prevent beachgoers from trampling eggs or chicks.
Erecting informative signs: These signs alert the public to the presence of nests and chicks, helping to reduce human interference.
Patrolling the beach: Volunteers patrol the beach day and night, especially during critical periods, to ensure compliance with the local dog ban and protect the birds from marauding cats. While this work is vital, it often means long, sleepless nights for the volunteers, sitting vigilantly to keep the birds safe.
Storm and king tide preparedness: When severe weather threatens nests, volunteers help with sandbagging and, if necessary, relocating nests, which can only be done under the guidance of the Department of Conservation (DOC) to prevent washout.

Last season, the efforts of the Waiwera Dotterel Minders Group paid off in a big way. A record 5 chicks successfully fledged, the highest number for many years, which was a huge win!

You can watch a short video documenting the trials and tribulations of last season’s work, here: Dotterel Success Story Video.

Thanks to the dedication of the Waiwera Dotterel Minders and local conservation groups, the Dotterel population is slowly increasing. Community-driven conservation is making a real difference, and every effort counts in helping these birds thrive.

To get involved or learn more, visit the Waiwera Dotterel Minders Facebook page.

Thank you to all the volunteers!