The Waikanae Estuary divides Waikanae and Paraparaumu beaches on the Kāpiti Coast. The adjacent lagoons (fringed by houses) and sand spit form a major seabird sanctuary. You will see a wide variety of shags and herons, possibly including royal spoonbill (kōtuku ngutupapa). The south side is also a protected scientific reserve. Early morning and evening are probably the best times for bird watching.
You can freedom camp at the end of Tutere St and immediately before access to the sandspit and low-lying dunes. From there, it’s also only a few minutes walk to the south end of Waikanae Beach.
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