it's time to get up close over breakfast with the most endangered gull in the world.

The tarāpuka or black-billed gull is billed as the main feature at the Maketū Ongatoro Wetland Society - MOWS 'Breakfast with the Gulls' event on November 12.

Glide across the estuary entrance to Maketū Spit on a boat and visit one of the most spectacular tarāpunga or red-billed gull nesting sites in New Zealand

This free, family friendly event aims to raise awareness of the plight of several at-risk species and the work that MOWS does to protect the unique coastal duneland at Maketū Spit.

The sandy peninsula is a breeding site for tuturiwhatu - NZ dotterels, tōrea - variable oystercatchers, gulls and tara  -  white-front terns.

Native shore skinks and numerous invertebrates also call the spit home.

In the past, there have also been huge flocks of kuaka - godwits) and ngutu pare - wrybills - arrive for the event.

Maketū Surfclub assisting with transport to Maketū Spit. Photo: Supplied.

In 2008, MOWS started trapping predators to protect NZ dotterel from pest animals, and has continued to maintain the dune system by removing weeds and monitoring the numbers of native species.

Slowly, the numbers of breeding birds have grown and last year saw record numbers of gulls and dotterels.

From the Maketū Surfclub, at this time of year, keen bird watchers can enjoy the scenes of the huge gull colony that has over 3000 red-billed gull nests and upwards of around 20 black-billed gull nests.

The rare Tarāpuka - Black Billed Gull - at Maketū Spit. Photo: Supplied.

At November’s event, you will get the chance to view them from their side of the estuary.

MOWS guides will lead you on a short walk along the beach to see the nesting birds and will share their knowledge with you of the area and the native species it is home to.

You may even spot a NZ dotterel with coloured leg bands that was marked when the Rena ran aground.

With the help of Maketū Surf Lifesaving Club, Inflatable Rescue Boats will be available to escort you to and from the spit.

Tuturiwhatu - NZ Dotterel. Photo: Supplied.

A barbecue breakfast will be available during the morning, care of Maketū Rotary.

A short MOWS AGM will be held straight after the event next to the surfclub. And Predator Free BOP will have free rat traps to give away during the morning.

The event will be held from 8am -10.30am, on Sunday, November 12, with the last boat rides leaving at 9.45am.

If weather is poor this will be postponed to November 26.

You can register for the boat trips on arrival. A koha towards MOWS would be greatly appreciated by the group.

For more information, contact janie@maketūwetlands.org.nz.