14
Photo essay
Pauanui
dune
reshape
The dune restoration at Pauanui is aimed at
restoring a sufficient width of native sand-
trapping vegetation to ensure natural dune
repair will occur following erosion. A small width
of natural dune vegetation was successfully
restored in the early-mid 2000s, but erosion
between 2008 and 2011 has seriously narrowed
this restored zone in central and southern areas
of the beach. The restored dune is now being
widened landward so it can accommodate the
maximum likely erosion. This native vegetation
will trap windblown sand and naturally repair
the dune once the period of erosion is over.
Recent dune erosion at Pauanui (2010) which seriously narrowed the restored frontal dune.
Local community volunteers undertaking dune restoration planting in 2012 to widen the natural dune.
A view before restoration showing how the recent
erosion had largely eliminated the narrow width of
natural dune vegetation.
View of the same area immediately following dune
restoration work and planting in late 2012.
The same area just eight months later, showing a good cover of natural dune vegetation.
Over time, this vegetation will repair the recent dune erosion.
A view of the most recent community planting in mid-2013, which has increased the width of natural dune
vegetation over a further 100 metres. The work will continue to extend along the shore in future years.
