We have found NZ to be committed and innovative in regard to sustainability. A hydro power scheme involving Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapouri was constructed during the 1950s so that both lakes could be maintained within their natural levels, rather than raising either of them – this was a world first.
Pat and I took a 5 km walk (and 5 km back!) to the control gates between the two lakes. Here’s what we saw on the way:
This is like Australian pandanus, but not quite.
NZ fern.
At the control gates (having walked 5 km!)
Currently, water is being released from Lake Te Anau.
The 60 km Kepler walking track begins here at the control gates.
Pat making like a “tramper”.
Now we’re on our way back. This area of NZ is very Scottish, even down to the thistles.
Canada Geese were introduced in 1876, and are now widespread throughout the South Island.
The Te Anau Wildlife Centre, on the shore of the lake, has a breeding and rearing program of the rare native flightless takahe previously thought to be extinct. There were only four recorded sightings in the 19th century, then none were seen until 1948, when a few pairs were discovered in this area.
Some of these captive reared birds are used as stock in establishing a successful offshore population.
The takahe grows to about 50cm in height and can live for over 20 years in captivity, but currently much less in the wild.
I hope that the re-establishment process continues to succeed.
Walked on Sunday 15th April.
Dad makes a good tramper.
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