For land productivity this zone has the best.

As soon as settlers arrived here (first, Maori and recently modern colonialists) this zone was chosen as it offered offered the best life style.

1860s wars over land use and ownership were taking place between the Maori and the Europeans who ultimately moved on to most of the zone. Settlements established at natural harbours and locations accessed by river boats.

1900s+ Population influxes came at the end of the Maori conflicts and gold rush areas. Farm land production increased with more intensive land use and industry towns grew at strategic locations. 

1920s+ Along with growing settlements tourism, attracted by fascinating geothermal activity, also thrived with improved transport and facilities.

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