Whats happening
The Wetlands (Ngā Repo)
Wetlands are one of New Zealand's most incredible habitats, yet they are also one of the most forgotten. Over 90 per cent of them have been lost since humankind reached these shores, and many people are oblivious to their importance or the life they support.
Te Wao Nui's The Wetlands (Ngā Repo) recreates one of these special habitats. A towering waterfall cascades down the rock face, flowing into a pool that is home to many of New Zealand's unique wading birds. Plant species, instantly recognisable to many also feature here; from flax to manuka to kahikatea and the cabbage tree.
This habitat focuses on unveiling a world that many visitors will not recognise. Within this world, the mysterious underwater life of eels is brought into view. Often misunderstood, but with an important role in the environment, the eel is the perfect icon for New Zealand's wetlands.
Some species in The Wetlands: Long-finned eel, pateke (brown teal), New Zealand scaup (papango), paradise shelduck (putangitangi), white-faced heron (matuku), grey teal (tete), New Zealand shoveler (kuruwhengi), banded rail
Go here to read the Deparment of
Conservation's 40 wetlands to visit in New Zealand
brochure.