The Southland Foothills eco-region contains three districts: Takitimu, a steep volcanic range known for its beech forests, unique alpine zone, and diverse birdlife; Taringatura, an area of low, rolling hills now largely converted to pasture, but whose riverbeds are important breeding grounds for birds; and Hokonui, a hilly district where remnants of original forest and tussockland still provide habitat for species like the fernbird, falcon, and green skink despite being predominantly farmed.