The region s most valuable estuary.

Pauatahanui Inlet is the larger of the two inlets of Porirua Harbour. The Inlet is the only large estuarine wetland left in the lower half of the North Island of New Zealand and covers an area of 4,500 hectares, of which about 1,100 hectares are tidal flats. The inlet s catchment covers an area of 100 square kilometres.

The Inlet is well recognised for its high ecological, aesthetic and recreational values. It is classified as a Site of Special Wildlife Interest by the Department of Conservation and the Regional Coastal Plan recognises Pauatahanui Inlet as an area of Significant Conservation Value

Greater Wellington and Porirua City Council are working with the community to ensure the sustainable management of this important natural resource. In 2000 both council s adopted the Pauatahanui Inlet Action Plan as a blueprint for future direction. This plan identified the key issues facing the Inlet and the actions necessary to address these.

Two important community groups that have a strong interest in the well-being of the Inlet are the Guardians of Pauatahanui Inlet and the Pauatahanui Inlet Community Trust. The Guardian s website  www.gopi.wellington.net.nz  has useful information about the Inlet and the activities of the Guardians.