Protecting Haulashore Island/Motu Mānuka: A Sanctuary on our doorstep

Haulashore Island/Motu Mānuka is a small but vital oasis just metres from Nelson's bustling waterfront. Behind the tranquil views of seabirds and rocky shores, a dedicated team of professionals and volunteers are working hard to keep this island a sanctuary for native wildlife.

Fighting pests to protect birdlife

The battle begins with pests. Over recent years, the Friends of Haulashore/Motu manuka have put in place an extensive and successful network of traps primarily targeting mice and rats (although a stoat was trapped in June 2020), all of which pose a threat to the eggs and young of nesting birds.

"Our contractors and volunteers are working together to make sure Haulashore Island thrives as a safe haven for native species," says Ben Pavitt, Contracts Supervisor - Biodiversity.

Birdlife has responded to this protection. Variable oystercatchers particularly favour the island, with seven or eight pairs attempting to nest last summer. Pied shags (kāruhiruhi) have been nesting in the pine trees for years, with Council monitoring one of only three pied shag colonies in Nelson.

Little blue penguins (kororā) are now regular nesters. The Friends group is working with the New Zealand Penguin Initiative to learn more about these birds' breeding success and population health—vital information for targeting future restoration efforts.

How you can help

Council is developing an Ecological Restoration Plan to strategically guide planting and weed control activities.

Remember: dogs are prohibited on Haulashore/Motu Mānuka. Dogs can cause serious harm to ground-nesting birds such as variable oystercatchers and pied stilts.

Every visitor has a role to play, simple actions like checking shoes and bags for seeds or pests make a real difference. With ongoing partnership between Council, contractors, volunteers, Port Nelson, iwi and the community, Haulashore Island remains a fantastic example of conservation in action, right on our city doorstep.