Awanui River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Awanui River |
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| Native name | Awanui |
| Region | Northland |
| District | Far North |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Confluence of Victoria River and Karemuhako Stream 35°07′01″S 173°19′41″E / 35.117°S 173.328°E |
| River mouth | Rangaunu Harbour 35°01′S 173°16′E / 35.017°S 173.267°E |
| Length | 30 km (19 mi) |
| Basin features | |
| River system | Awanui River |
The Awanui River is a river located in the very north of New Zealand. It flows close to where the Aupouri Peninsula connects to the rest of the Northland Peninsula. The Awanui River first flows west, then turns north. It travels for about 30 kilometers (19 miles) before reaching Rangaunu Harbour. The town of Kaitaia is situated along its banks.
Four main rivers and streams flow into the Awanui River. These are the Takahue River, Victoria River, Karemuhako Stream, and Tarawhaturoa Stream. The name Awanui means "large river" in the Māori language.
River History
For many years, the Awanui River was a very important waterway. Until 1960, it was regularly deepened and widened. This work helped boats travel easily along the river.
A busy river port was located at Awanui. From here, butter was shipped by coastal boats called scows. These scows carried the butter to Auckland. From Auckland, it was then sent on to the United Kingdom.
Upstream from Awanui, the river was also deepened and straightened. This was done to help control floods. Boats like the Coronation, Tiri, and Kapuni often carried cargo. These scows had a shallow bottom, which helped them navigate the river.
Sometimes, a smaller work boat named Ann helped guide the scows around river bends. This boat was piloted by the Harbourmaster, Thomas George Walker. Later, his son, Thomas Frederick Walker, took over. This family also ran a marine radio station nearby.
Thomas Frederick Walker passed away in 1987. His son, Thomas Christopher Walker, then became the Harbourmaster. The Walker family has held this important position for over 100 years.
Flood Risk
Flooding can be a problem in the lower parts of the Awanui River area. This is because the land there is very low and flat. The towns of Kaitaia and Awanui are especially at risk of flooding.
The Northland Regional Council keeps a close eye on the Awanui River's water levels. They also plan and carry out projects to protect against floods.
Water Quality
The Northland Regional Council also checks the water quality of the Awanui River. You can find information about the river's environment online. The LAWA website provides details on its water quality.
Town Water Supply
The town of Kaitaia gets its drinking water from the Awanui River.
