Agassiz Glacier (New Zealand) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Agassiz Glacier |
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Agassiz Glacier in 2001
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 Location in West Coast
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| Coordinates | 43°30′11″S 170°12′36″E / 43.503121°S 170.210023°E |
| Terminus | Franz Josef Glacier / Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere |
The Agassiz Glacier is a large river of ice found in New Zealand. It is located on the South Island, near the west coast. This glacier is connected to a much bigger glacier called the Franz Josef Glacier / Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere. The Agassiz Glacier gets its ice from two areas high up in the mountains: the Chamberlin Snowfield and the Davis Snowfield.
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What is the Agassiz Glacier?
A glacier is like a very slow-moving river made of ice. The Agassiz Glacier is one of many glaciers in New Zealand. It flows down from high mountains towards the coast. It is an important part of the natural landscape in the Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Where is the Agassiz Glacier located?
The Agassiz Glacier is in the Westland District of New Zealand's West Coast Region. This area is known for its beautiful and rugged scenery. The glacier is part of a large system of ice and mountains. It is a popular place for people to visit and see nature.
How did Agassiz Glacier get its name?
The Agassiz Glacier was discovered and named by a German geologist named Sir Julius von Haast. He named it after Louis Agassiz. Louis Agassiz was a scientist from Switzerland who studied glaciers. He later moved to America.
Why was the name changed?
In 2015, there was a worldwide effort to change the names of some places. These places had been named after Louis Agassiz. This was because some of his past ideas are now seen as wrong. Because of this, the Agassiz Glacier was informally 'unnamed'. There was a plan to give it a new name. This new name would be a Māori name. Māori are the native people of New Zealand.
