Life in the Shallows: The Wetlands of Aotearoa New Zealand

by Monica Peters, Monica Peters

Rich and diverse but often unloved, Aotearoa’s wetlands are the most vulnerable of our ecosystems. Only a tiny fraction of their original extent remains, and we continue to lose this vital habitat. The race is on to discover more about them while we still can. This highly illustrated and absorbing book introduces and explores the wetlands of Aotearoa through the work and experiences of our leading researchers. It also explores the deep cultural and spiritual significance they have for Maori, and the collaboration of matauranga Maori and western science in continuing to improve our understanding of these special places. Featuring wetlands to visit all around the country, descriptions of the rich bird, insect, and plant life that can be found there, and some of the innovative ways we can protect and restore them, Life in the Shallows is a key resource for those who want to explore, understand, and care for these precious places. All proceeds from book sales go to the National Wetland Trust to further its wetland advocacy work.

344 pages, Paperback

Published July 14, 2022

Reviews

[Brenda Greene · Rating 5 out of 5]

A celebration of wetlands and the people who protect them. Short chapters with gorgeous images outline wetland classification, matauranga Maori, and interviews with various experts on different aspects of this diverse ecosystem. There are links to other resources, such as the wetland monitoring and assessment kit, research grants, and national data bases. Here is expertise at your fingertips, easily accessed and simply told.