For the second season in a row, the Tucker Beach Wildlife Management Reserve, which lies within a bend of the Shotover River, was closed to vehicles for five months to protect the nests of the black-billed gull, banded dotterel and black-fronted tern.
Ecologist Dawn Palmer, who monitored the area with the help of Department of Conservation staff, said the closure had been vital for creating a safe, quiet space for the birds.
A colony of black-billed gulls - the world's most endangered gull - had discovered the area and nested, with an estimated 15 new chicks being spotted
Banded dotterel and black-fronted terns had also flourished.
Ms Palmer said she hoped vehicle restrictions over the September to January period would continue.
Queenstown Lakes Mayor Jim Boult said he was heartened by the result, and the community had an opportunity to make a difference for the threatened birds.
"We cannot take this situation lightly.
"While closing the reserve to vehicles may not be popular with everyone, the outcome for these endangered birds and the efforts of everyone involved in trying to turn around their plight must be applauded."
Bike and pedestrian access to the reserve was maintained.
