The wetlands in the wider, more central part of the Ahuriri Valley are extensive. Although they were part of the sheep stations in the area, they were mainly left untouched. The most accessible is Ben Avon Wetland, where the largest lagoon is right next to Birchwood Road, just south of the Ahuriri Conservation Park.
This is a particularly pretty spot on a fine windless day, with golden tussocks and reflections of the mountains surrounding the wetlands. These wetlands also support a wide range of water birds. You may even spot a kakī/ black stilt, an endangered wading bird in the Mackenzie/Waitaki region.
10 images