These are just some of the 55 different species of tiny plants which make up the special “turf plant” communities on the shores of Lake Wairarapa. Thriving in areas which are alternately covered in water and exposed, they grow around the mudflats, lagoons, sand flats, marshlands, salt marshes and back waters. These plants look like necklaces or sprinklings of green amidst the mud and sand. 

You’ll find them along the eastern shore of Lake Wairarapa, an area which is particularly popular with wading birds. These birds stir up the mud, which doesn’t bother turf plants, but make it difficult for larger plants to take root. 

The strong westerly wind can raise the water levels here by up to one metre. Known as the seiche effect, this phenomenon combined with the very gentle slope of the shore and the action of wading birds has created the perfect environment for the turfs.