Scott Simpson
MP for Coromandel

Media Release
5 December, 2012

Government to create new scenic reserve at Miranda

A new scenic reserve will be created along the Miranda coastline which will preserve a rare landform and help protect habitat for a variety of native birds.

Coromandel MP Scott Simpson said the Government had purchased the land for $250,000 in order to protect the area's Chenier plains – a series of ridges made up of sand, shell or gravel.

Mirand’a Chenier plains are one of the world’s finest examples of this rare coastal landform.

The site also contains wetlands with a healthy population of the threatened plant Maori musk (Mimulus repens), and habitat for native species such as grey duck, South Island pied oystercatchers, grey-faced heron, and pied stilt.

“I am absolutely delighted that the Minister for Conservation has approved this purchase. Miranda is already a hugely popular location for bird enthusiasts and this new scenic reserve will not only enhance that reputation but ensure it is protected into the future,” Mr Simpson said.

The Nature Heritage Fund purchased the land for $250,000 from Kaiaua farmer Rob McCartie. As part of the purchase deal, Mr McCartie has agreed to enter into a covenant over a further 14.5 hectares of land which contains the remaining Chenier plain.

It will be managed by the Department of Conservation as a scenic reserve.

“The purchase gives us the opportunity to protect rare Chenier plain habitat that is rapidly disappearing along this coastline,” said Conservation Minister Kate Wilkinson.

“The land is adjacent to the much larger Taramaire Wildlife Management Reserve, so will enhance the network of wetland habitat so valuable for internationally threatened wading shorebirds.”

This coastline is also recognised as internationally significant under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.

ENDS

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