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Lakes and Wetlands

The West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island features a diverse collection of glacial lakes and ancient wetland ecosystems. These water bodies, ranging from the mirror-like surfaces of Lake Matheson to the kahikatea-fringed shores of Lake Mapourika, were formed by retreating glaciers thousands of years ago. The region includes significant conservation areas like the Okarito wetland complex and Burmeister Morass, providing critical habitats for rare native bird species such as the kōtuku (white heron) and the New Zealand fernbird.