Nelson/Tasman wetlands
Eelgrass beds, Farewell Spit,
Ramsar Site
Waimea inlet is an extensive shallow bar-built estuary open to the sea at the western (Mapua) and eastern (Nelson) ends of Rabbit Island. Fifty species of waterfowl have been recorded at the inlet. There are 10 islands within the estuary with Rabbit Island catering for day visitors.
New Zealand's largest relatively intact river catchment is the Buller which has a water conservation order over it. It has a diversity of sub-catchments, gorges, lakes and tarns supporting a nationally significant native fishery and sports fishery. The Buller is a premier white-water kayaking river, while gold-fossicking and hunting are also popular. The Kawatiri and Six Mile walkways are the best known walks.
Also find out about Farewell Spit - New Zealand's longest sandspit.