13/08/76; South Island; ~20,000 ha; 46°34S 168°31E. Scientific Reserve. The site consists of a coastal lagoon, peatlands, saltmarsh, gravel beach, ponds, and lakes. These habitats provide important staging areas for waders, as well as breeding, feeding, and molting areas for various other waterbirds. Endemic butterfly species occur, as do two species of endangered fish. The site supports numerous native plant species, some typical of alpine regions. Human activities include sport fishing, bird hunting, and general recreation. Formerly called Waituna Lagoon Ramsar site, boundaries extended in 2008. Ramsar site no. 102. Most recent RIS information: 2008.

South Island