Inventory of coastal areas of local or regional significance in the ...

Waiwhakaiho Estuary
Number: 21 GPS: 2605955E
6240230N
General description
The Waiwhakaiho Estuary is an important wildlife area and nearby are extensive sand dunes
covered in rough scrub and marram. Offshore are Te Whioa and Rewarewa kaimoana reefs
and two shipwrecks. There is an old canoe launch ramp. The surrounding beach is mainly
boulder with sand and cobbles. Adjacent to the left bank is Lake Rotomanu - a freshwater
wetland/lake. 4
Location
On the northern outskirts of New Plymouth city.
Land tenure
Site: - Crown Land: Estuary (administered by the Department of Conservation)
On the right bank; Crown Land Conservation Area
(accretion in river mouth) (administered by the Department
of Conservation)
Site access: - District Land: on the left bank; Recreation reserves and Clemow Road
(administered by New Plymouth District Council)
Values
Amenity High - regionally important amenity values 1 , and a significant
coastal area 3
Recreational High - surfing and fishing, and use of Lake Rotomanu
Cultural/ High - Rewarewa Pa 3
Historical
Ecological/
Scientific
Moderate - inanga spawning site, diverse freshwater shrimp habitat 5
- was once an important lamprey fishery 2
- important for wading and migratory birds 2
- priority water body 3
Public access
Good - Direct access to the left bank by driving from Clemow Road past Lake
Rotomanu. Access can also be gained by walking north along Fitzroy Beach.
No access to the right bank.
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