Porirua’s wetlands play a vital role in protecting the environment, and they are open for all to explore.
February 2 marks World Wetlands Day, a global celebration of these important ecosystems. Wetlands help maintain healthy streams and harbors by filtering land runoff, storing excess stormwater, and acting as carbon sinks.
Once widespread across Porirua, wetlands have significantly declined over time. However, thanks to local conservation efforts, several remain accessible to the public, offering opportunities to connect with nature.
Te Kūkūwai o Toa Wetland – Elsdon Park
The newest addition to Porirua’s wetlands, Te Kūkūwai o Toa, was constructed in 2022 in partnership with Wellington Water, Porirua City Council, and Ngāti Toa Rangatira, with funding from the Ministry for the Environment’s Freshwater Improvement Fund.
Covering one hectare, it treats stormwater runoff from 40 hectares of commercial and residential areas. More than 20,000 native aquatic plants have been planted, covering 80 percent of the wetland surface to support biodiversity.
Water from the Urukahika Stream flows into the wetland before reaching Te Awarua-o-Porirua Harbour. The wetland was the final stage of a stormwater upgrade project to prevent flooding at Porirua School, Ngāti Toa Street, and the CBD. Visitors can enjoy the area from a specially built walkway and viewing platform, where pūkeko sightings are common.
Pāuatahanui Wetland – A Wildlife Haven
At 100 hectares, Pāuatahanui Wetland is the largest remaining estuarine wetland in the lower North Island. It is home to diverse wildlife, thanks to decades of volunteer-led restoration efforts.
The Department of Conservation administers large parts of the wetland, including the Pāuatahanui Wildlife Reserve, which features walking tracks, bird-watching hides, and a visitor center. Groups such as Forest & Bird and the Guardians of Pāuatahanui Inlet have played a major role in restoring the habitat and reintroducing endangered bird species.
For those wanting to explore further, Te Ara Piko walkway offers a scenic route along the inlet for walking or cycling.
Taupō Swamp – A Biodiversity Gem
Taupō Swamp, located along State Highway 59 between Plimmerton and Pukerua Bay, was the first major wetland in the Wellington region to receive official protection. Purchased in 1988 by the QEII National Trust, the site gained recognition for its rich plant, bird, fish, reptile, and insect life.
This wetland regulates water flows, reduces flood risks, and improves water quality by capturing sediments and nutrients from surrounding land. Friends of Taupō Swamp and Catchment, a local conservation group founded in 2018, continues efforts to protect and restore the wetland.
A significant milestone came in mid-2024 when the elusive mātātā (fern bird) was spotted and photographed at Taupō Swamp, a sign that restoration efforts are succeeding. Visitors can experience the wetland via the Ara Harakeke path, which runs alongside it.
Visit and Appreciate Porirua’s Wetlands
Porirua’s wetlands are thriving thanks to decades of community and conservation work. Whether for a casual stroll, birdwatching, or learning about their environmental importance, these wetlands are worth a visit.