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Nature reserve · Motueka, Tasman
Motueka Sandspit
Sandspit in the Motueka River delta, next to the town, internationally recognised as an area for resident and migratory shorebirds. Flat walking on sand, with the estuary on one side and Tasman Bay on the other.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Motueka Sandspit
The Motueka Sandspit is part of the Motueka River delta, formed by the sandspit, the river mouth and the estuary known as the Kumaras. The sand comes from the Motueka and Riwaka rivers and is continuously shaped by the sea, so the spit’s form changes with storms and tides.
The site is considered internationally important under the Ramsar Convention on wetlands because of the numbers of bar-tailed godwits and two species of oystercatcher that use it. In summer, thousands of birds usually feed or rest there, including double-banded plovers, turnstones, terns and gulls. The godwits arrive from Alaska and spend the local summer in the region.
The delta’s reed and marsh areas are spawning grounds for whitebait, the small fish caught in New Zealand rivers, and the mussel beds feed the birds.
The most convenient access is at the end of Staples Street, on the town’s north side: after about 400 metres walking south the spit separates from the shore. Along the waterfront, from the old wharf it’s about 1,400 metres to the spit’s base. The reserve is managed by the Department of Conservation.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 to 3 hours, depending on distance walked.
Best time
At mid or low tide, when birds feed at the water’s edge. From September to March migratory species are usually in the delta. Check the tide table before you go.
How to get there
Access is at the end of Staples Street, north of Motueka’s centre. There is also a longer path along the shoreline.
Tip
Bring binoculars and keep your distance from the birds: if they seem agitated, move away because nests may be nearby. Fires and vehicles are not allowed, and dogs are not permitted in the southern part.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Motueka Sandspit
Which birds appear on the Motueka Sandspit?
Turnstones, oystercatchers, godwits, tattlers, terns and gulls, among other resident and migratory species.
Where does the walk onto the Motueka Sandspit start?
The shortest access is via Staples Street; if you prefer a longer walk you can start at the old wharf and follow the shoreline.
Can you take a dog to the Motueka Sandspit?
Only on the northern part, on the wet sand and without letting the dog chase the birds. Dogs are not allowed on the southern part.