Sharing the same views and aspirations for betterment of the Mangawhai Wildlife Refuge, MHRS's fencing and planting programmes are carried out with the support of DOC Northland Conservancy. Pest Control, a vital element of good dune management, is carried out by MHRS under contract to DOC, and the MHRS works closely with the About Tern Group.
Shell banks, created by dredging and dune development, are the preferred nesting sites for Fairy Terns and have locally proven to be successful breeding grounds for these highly endangered birds. The banks, dunes and vegetation are also a haven for both NZ and foreign migratory birds, NZ and Banded Dotterels, Caspian and White Fronted Terns, and Variable Oyster Catchers.