Golden sand sedge/pīkao/pīngao

Pingao or Pikao, Stewart Island. Photo: Greg Lind.

Pīkao or pīngao, Stewart Island

Pīkao or pīngao is a native sand-binding sedge that plays an important role in New Zealand's dune ecosystems.

Pīkao in flower. Photo: Jim Fyfe.

Facts about pīkao

Pīkao or pīngao is an important native coastal plant and has bothe conservation and cultural values. It stabilises vulnerable sandy areas along the coast and enhances biodiversity.

Marram grass, Spit Island.

Threats to pīkao

The major factors that have contributed to the decline of pīkao along New Zealand's beaches.

Marine Ranger, Jim Fyfe, showing children from Taieri Beach School how to plant pīkao. Photo: Nicola Vallance.

DOC's work with pīkao

DOC is working in a variety of ways to re-establish pīkao on many parts of the coastline. This includes encouraging many other groups to get involved.

Planting pīkao at Taieri Mouth, Otago. Photo: Nicola Vallance.

You can help save pīkao

The ways in which individuals and community groups can contribute to the re-introduction of pīkao along our coastline.

Highlights:

Image from the Meet the Locals - Pingao video. Image copyright: TVNZ.

Pingao video

This video takes you to Turakina Beach, one of the largest sand dune systems left in New Zealand. Find out why this area is nicknamed ‘the Gold Coast’ and learn about the native pingao plant.

 
 

Find out more

Publication
Tree planting for attracting native birds
Publication

Threatened species

If you are interested in beginning your own restoration project, the DOC publication ecological restoration guidelines (PDF, 396K) is a helpful resource.

Information

Mainland islands Learn about this innovative approach to conserving our native plants.

The Loder Cup is awarded for plant conservation.

 

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