Ōtautahi's Avon-Heathcote Ihutai estuary has received international recognition for its importance as a safe haven for scores of migratory birds. 

Home to 118 different bird species – including some endangered – we hope to spot and hopefully identify and photograph an array of water birds and the vibrant life forms thriving in these unique ecosystems. Bring your camera and binoculars if you have them.

Ecologist Andrew Crossland will bring his 40-plus years of expertise to support our bird identification, along with the use of the iNaturalistNZ app to record our sightings and be counted in the challenge.

Meet at the estuary end of Tern Street. The walk will take us right out onto the mudflats so best to wear old sandshoes or gumboots and expect to get wet and muddy.

A good level of fitness and steadiness on your feet will be required.