New Zealand Dotterel Watch Programme
The Department of Conservation in partnership with Newmont Waihi Gold (NWG) actively manages New Zealand dotterel on the Coromandel Peninsula.
An intensive management programme (including predator control, banding chicks and monitoring breeding attempts) of NZ dotterel was started at Opoutere on the Coromandel Peninsula in 1986.
The work is undertaken by DOC, NWG, and local volunteers known as minders. During the NZ dotterel breeding season (September - March), a seasonal full time ranger is employed by DOC (funded by NWG), to provide technical, logistical and operational support to the minder network.
What do minders do?
Minders play a key role in nesting and breeding success. They are the rangers 'eyes and ears' on the beaches and provide excellent volunteer support maintaining fences and making regular trips to the nesting sites.
NZ dotterel at Nemont Waihi Gold
Their role can include:
- predator trapping
- monitoring nest sites
- reporting to the dotterel ranger
- and often are an advocate for the birds in smaller coastal settlements
Minders are supported by the dotterel ranger and overall NZ Dotterel Watch Programme management.
Where do they do it?
DOC ranger at Opoutere
Minders usually look after NZ dotterel in their own back yards. Covering their local beaches, sandspits and dune systems.
How can I get involved?
DOC staff, NWG staff, minders, and members of the surrounding community are all involved in the programme. The NZ Dotterel Watch Programme requires people who have abundant enthusiasm, are available a couple of hours a day between August and March and live in coastal communities close to prime breeding habitat.
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