Discover the city's wild side

The gecko: part of our biodiversity. Photo: John Marris

A book heralding Christchurch's natural environment will be available in time for people to buy copies for Christmas presents. " Christchurch Naturally, discovering the city's wild side", has been funded by the Council Parks Unit and produced by a working party of City Council staff members and experts from other organisations.

It is a soft cover book with lots of colour pictures and information centred on biodiversity (biological diversity) - "the total variety of all living things".

Four distinct natural communities are identified: the coast, dry plains, wet plains and the Port Hills. There is a brief look at the plant and animal life that has adapted to an urban environment.

The book is available from Council libraries and Service Centres and selected retail outlets.

For more information contact Viena Mavaega in the Parks Unit, 941 8782.