Learn about the soils and historic indigenous vegetation in and around Christchurch. The map links to detailed planting guides useful for restoration projects, landscape design, and school and backyard projects.
Find out about your local ecosystem
View the Ōtautahi/Christchurch ecosystems map(external link).
Let this be a key to help you unlock the nature of your place.
The mix of soils, plants, wildlife and microbes and the processes that bind them together is the ecosystem. As well as being mapped, each ecosystem has a signature name and graphic. Native plant species, landforms and soils distinguish each ecosystem.
A native plant list guide for schools, nurseries, designers and the public to know what naturally belongs within different parts of the city, and what growing conditions each species prefers.