Pāuatahanui Inlet cockle survey

Simon from Paremata

The Guardians of Pāuatahanui Inlet will be leading the 12th Pāuatahanui triennial cockle survey on Sunday 2 November at 1 pm (with a weather-determined back-up date of 16 November).
Cockles form a large part of the Inlet marine fauna and monitoring the strength of the population is an important tool for assessing the ecological health of the Inlet. Our programme (the longest running community science programme in NZ) has long been recognised as a prime scientific activity, both for the information it provides and for the opportunity it offers the community to be actively involved in implementation of the strategic plans for the Harbour.
There are 30 survey sites around the Inlet and each site needs a team of at least 3, preferably 4 or 5, volunteers so we are seeking the help of around 120 members of the community with 30 of those willing to take on the role of team leader.
Participating in the survey is a great activity for secondary school students, particularly those studying biology and ecology. It also offers the opportunity of a team building activity for local groups, businesses and other organisations or just a group of friends who want to spend an afternoon together doing something constructive for the community.
For more information go to or e-mail pauainlet@gmail.com if you can participate in any way.