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Extensive dune systems are found from one end of the Hawke’s Bay coastline to the other. The largest of these, at Porangahau, Ocean Beach, Rangaiika, Pukenui and Onenui (Southeast Mahia Peninsula) are among the best on the east coast of the North Island.
Only one of these dune systems has protective status; this being a small system between cape Kidnappers and Black Reef. Many of the dune systems along our coast are under severe threat. All have been modified by farming, weed invasion and the invasion of animal pests. Most are subject to varying degrees of coastal settlement and development, and the pressure for coastal development is accelerating. |
Coastal Foredune - Porangahau
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In the past, the dunes would have been prime breeding grounds for seabirds and for a range of native reptiles and invertebrates. The flora of the past, including diverse shrublands, native sandbinders, Spinifex, pingao and sand tussock, are now sparse.
The review confirmed that many of the dunes are under severe threat and that there is an urgent need for pest control, vehicle management, fencing, restoration planting and fostering a better understanding of dune ecology and public interest in duneland restoration. These are some of the goals of the Regional Council’s CoastCare programme.
Ocean Beach Dune Care