Te Henga Tūturiwhatu - AS Colour /

The Tuturiwhātū / New Zealand Dotterel is a treasured coastal manu, nesting along open sandy shores and fragile dune systems. At Te Henga (Bethells Beach), this vulnerable species relies on protected habitat and strong community care to survive and thrive. Small yet resilient, the tuturiwhātū symbolises guardianship, restoration, and the delicate balance of Aotearoa’s coastal ecosystems.

This piece also acknowledges the dedicated mahi of the local conservation group Te Henga Tuturiwhātū, whose volunteers work tirelessly to monitor nests, protect breeding areas, and raise awareness to ensure these birds continue to return each season. Their hands-on guardianship is vital to the survival of the tuturiwhātū at Te Henga.