The Catlins Coast Technical Report
- Journal / Source
- Department of Conservation
- Pages
- 28
- Summary
- The Catlins, in the south-eastern corner of Te Waipounamu (the South Island) has been occupied by humans for at least a thousand years. The region is named after Captain Edward Cattlin (correct spelling), who bought land from the Käi Tahu chief Tuhawaiki in 1840, a month before the Treaty of Waitangi was signed. The “Catlins” name now refers to the whole coastline, coastal forests and farmland between the Clutha and Mataura Rivers. This area is now the largest expanse of native forest left on the east coast of the South Island. The extent and range of vegetation give it national importance for its botanical value. Unbroken sequences of vegetation stretch from the coast to subalpine tops. The Catlins’ remote and largely unspoilt coastline and bush provide a precious haven for wildlife. Many species of animals, insects, plants and fish found here are now rare or endangered. Today scientists, students and tourists from all over the world visit the Catlins to experience a unique, relatively unmodified landscape – New Zealand close to the way it was hundreds of years ago.