Crate Day might ritualistically mark the beginning of summer for many Cantabrians, but it’s also one of the most vulnerable times of the year for some of the world’s rarest birds – and they’re nesting right under our feet.

The braided rivers of Waitaha, such as the Waimakariri River and the Ashley Rakahuri River, are home to taonga species like the wrybill, black-fronted tern (tarapiroe) and the black billed gull (tarapuka). These birds don’t nest in trees or in the reeds; instead they lay their eggs directly on the clear open gravels of our braided rivers. Their nests, camouflaged, almost invisible to the human eye. It’s this fact that leaves them vulnerable, able to be destroyed in seconds by vehicles, dogs, or even foot traffic.

Crate Day coincides with the peak of the nesting season. Large gatherings, noise, and riverbed driving put these species at real risk. Even one afternoon of disturbance can wipe out an entire season’s breeding effort.

“We want people to enjoy summer and enjoy their rivers, just pick your spot with care,” Environment Canterbury Team Leader Parks, Karen Elliott said.

“These populations of birds are particularly vulnerable this season, with flooding already disturbing and, in some cases, wiping out nests, along with chicks and eggs. We need to respect the rivers and give wildlife the space they need to survive and thrive.”

A shared backyard

While Crate Day is one day in the social calendar, braided river bird protection is crucial year-round and it’s a collaborative effort.

Mana whenua, local conservation and rivercare groups, Fish & Game, local and regional councils and DOC all play a role in monitoring nesting areas to reduce disturbance. Rangers will be out on the ground over summer to help educate river users so we can all support these native species.

“Braided rivers are globally unique environments and they’re landscapes that people across our region value and feel strongly connected to. We’re simply asking people to enjoy them in a way that keeps them alive – for the birds and for future generations,” she said.

If you’re heading out this summer:

• Avoid gravel islands and open riverbed areas

• Keep dogs on a lead

• Keep on formed tracks

• Take your rubbish home

• Follow any signage, fencing, or instructions from rangers.

Or better yet – keep away from sensitive nesting areas, or outside of nesting season and leave the riverbed to the birds. They’re raising their families too.

About braided rivers

The braided rivers of Waitaha are internationally significant ecosystems found in only a few places on earth. Fast-flowing, constantly shifting channels create islands of gravel and sand – making perfect nesting spots for these rare and unique species that have evolved to rely on open riverbeds for survival. These birds are under threat globally, and population trends continue to decline.

When parents are forced off their nests – by dogs, vehicles, drones, or disturbance, eggs can overheat or become exposed to predators such as stoats, cats, and southern black backed gulls. Many chicks do not survive a single human interaction.

Environment Canterbury manages braided rivers to protect people and ecosystems. We reduce flood risk, monitor and restore habitats, safeguard taonga species, work alongside mana whenua, enforce environmental rules, and support communities to use these landscapes responsibly. Our goal is to ensure braided rivers remain healthy for wildlife, recreation, and future generations.

Want to help?

• Visit ecan.govt.nz/braidedrivers to learn more

• Follow river signage and any closures

• Choose recreation spots away from nesting areas

• Report disturbance or suspected nesting to 0800 324 636

© Scoop Media