In this unique Zone, we find New Zealand's lowest rainfalls, (400mm) coldest winters and hottest summers. The elevated zone is surrounded by mountains, scoured and shaped by glaciers and rivers acting on the soft schist rock.  The land was extensively mined for gold with the arrival of the European settlers (1860's).  New plants have changed the look of the area.

Three of New Zealand's largest glacier lakes feed deadly rivers that shape deep gorges. The high alps to the West gather the snows and rain waters to constantly replenish. Two large Hydro power dams capture the power of the Clutha River.   

 Deserts    Geology   Glaciation    Gorges    HEP Lake   Israel landscapes    Lakes    Rapids    Rivers     Vegetation   Weather