Birdwatching on the Firth of Thames

By HEATHER RAMSAY

The Miranda coast on the Firth of Thames is a world-renowned destination for birdwatchers with thousands of migratory wading birds joining New Zealand breeding shorebirds each year.

The Miranda Naturalists' Trust was formed to encourage people to visit the coastline and gain an appreciation of the area's flora and fauna.

The trust runs the Miranda Shorebird Centre at 283 East Coast Rd, an information and education centre providing events and educational programmes.

It is a short walk from the roosting areas, and there is lodge accommodation nearby. There is no charge for individuals to visit, but donations to the charitable trust are appreciated. A small charge is levied for groups.

Contact: (09) 232 2781

Miranda Shorebird Centre