The Catlins eco-region, comprising the Waipahi and Tahakopa districts, is characterised by Jurassic geology and a moist, cool climate. The inland Waipahi is largely deforested farmland with limited native wildlife. Conversely, the coastal Tahakopa holds the South Island's last major east coast forest, crucial for diverse native birds (like kākā and blue duck), coastal breeding birds, reptiles, and fish. However, Tahakopa's high ecological value is threatened by farming, Pinus radiata plantations, and predators.