WildlifeHidden gem
Manawatū Estuary
Foxton Beach, Manawatū-Whanganui
Estuary where godwits and other wading birds gather, one of the best birdwatching sites in the lower North Island.
- Cost
- Free
- Booking
- No need to book
- Time to allow
- 75 min
The Manawatū River estuary has mudflats and sandbars that attract wading birds, including godwits that arrive from Alaska. Hides and a short walk make it easy. Timing around the tide helps.
Good to know
- Go on a rising tide with binoculars
- Sept to March for migratory waders
- Best time
- Rising tide
- Open
- Spring and summer
- Getting there
- Foxton Beach end, short walk
- Vehicles
- Fine in any car
- Dogs
- No dogs
Data: Roadtrip. Things change: check opening times, prices and rules before you go.
Know what the drive costs
Roadtrip works out the fuel or charging cost of any drive for your exact car, finds the cheapest stations on the way, and plans the stops.
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