Protecting Otaki's dunes for the future

A new fence going up today [25 June] will protect some of Otaki Beach’s most important dunes from motorbikes, 4WDs and other vehicles.

“These dunes are fairly intact in comparison to much of the duneland along Kapiti Coast, as they’ve escaped the impacts associated with urban development,” says Greater Wellington Councillor Nigel Wilson. “But parts of the dunes are in danger of being destroyed by vehicles on the beach – a bit of reckless driving can cause significant damage to these fragile dune systems.”

Cr Wilson says that the dunes have a dual role that some people may not be aware of.

“The biodiversity includes a mix of foredunes, backdunes and wetland ecosystems, providing a habitat for both shorebirds and wetland birds. And the dunes act as a ‘buffer’ between the sea and land, helping to protect us from storms and future sea level rise.

“I hope that the fence is a reminder to people of the important part that dunes play in protecting our environment, as well as keeping vehicles at a safe distance!,” says Cr Wilson.

The fence will begin immediately north of Waitohu Stream, stretching about 1km along Otaki Beach. Greater Wellington is partnering with Kapiti Coast District Council and neighbouring landowners on this project.