Whenua

The wetlands of Hikuraki and Manawapōre (the Mavora Lakes) lie within the impressive geographical and ancestral landscape of the Whakatipu Wai-Māori (Lake Whakatipu) region. Surrounded by maunga, bush, and tussock grassland, the lakes were part of an important traditional travel route from Murihiku to the head of Whakatipu Wai-Māori and thence, the famed pounamu source, Te Koroka. An alternative route via Whakatipu Ka-Tuku (the Hollyford Track) provided access to Te Tai Poutini (the West Coast). Manawapōre was renowned for its tuna (eels), which were harvested using stone pā tuna (eel weirs) constructed on the lake edges.

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Photograph: Tony Bridge