Playing the hebe in Doubtful Sound

By Caroline Carter, Community Relations Ranger, Te Anau

Recent visitors to Doubtful Sound were treated to some unexpected and unforgettable entertainment when Ian Frewe transformed our native hebe into a musical instrument.

Ian is a Nature Guide/Driver for Real Journeys a local Fiordland tourism company.

On a recent bus trip to Doubtful Sound Ian and visitors took the time linger and experience the natural wonders around them and take in the awesome view.

Doubtful Sound

The native plants of New Zealand are pretty unique having evolved in isolation for millions of years. Koromiko, Hebe salicifolia, is one native plant that seems to have developed some interesting musical properties in Ian’s expert hands.

Koromiko flower 

Watch Ian Frewe playing the hebe: