Whenua Waotū (The High Country)

The Habitat

The High Country represents all the iconic elements of the South Ialand  in Te Wao Nui, and gives visitors the chance to come face-to-face with its most famous resident, the kea. The streams throughout this habitat are the ideal home for whio (blue duck), whose sole habitat is New Zealand’s fast flowing streams.

Like many animals in Te Wao Nui, the species seen in The High Country have developed their unique characteristics over centuries of isolation. As humans continue to explore and move into their habitats, it is important that we act as kaitiaki for these species and habitats.

Stone wall and High Country hut

The stone wall cladding is a basalt schist stone, typical of old South Island huts. The High Country hut features a mud textured floor and plaster work that is themed to look as though it is falling off to add to the aged appearance of the hut.