Korowai Dunes 

Protecting a Unique Coastal Habitat

The Korowai Dunes, known as the “5-mile strip,” includes the sand dune complex extending approximately 8 km north of Okiritoto Stream. It is part of Muriwai Regional Park and home to the endangered Korowai Gecko, found only in Muriwai’s unique coastal environment.

MET is collaborating with Auckland Council, supported by iwi, to establish a trap network throughout the dunes targeting rats, mustelids, and possums. This is critical to the success of the Korowai Gecko and Korora (little blue penguins) that nest in the dunes. Tatahi Skinks, Katipo spiders, and other species also inhabit this area. We also aim to assist with revegetation in degraded dune areas.

We advocate for better dune protection from off-road vehicles and motocross bikes, which are illegally taken into the dunes, damaging vegetation and creating blowouts that smother gecko and skink habitats.

Around 20 penguin boxes have been deployed in the 5-mile strip in response to kororā returning after the beach was closed to vehicles following the cyclone.