Cust River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cust River |
|
|---|---|
| Country | New Zealand |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Canterbury Plains |
| River mouth | Cam River / Ruataniwha |
| Length | 51 km (32 mi) |
The Cust River is a river found in the Canterbury area of New Zealand. It flows for about 51 kilometers (32 miles). The river starts north of the town of Oxford, New Zealand. It then flows east across the top part of the Canterbury Plains.
The Cust River eventually joins the Cam River / Ruataniwha. This meeting point is near the town of Rangiora. The small town of Cust is also located right next to the river.
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About the Cust River
The Cust River is an important waterway in the Canterbury region. It helps shape the landscape as it moves across the flat Canterbury Plains. These plains are a large, flat area of land formed by rivers.
Where the River Flows
The river begins its journey north of Oxford, New Zealand. It flows towards the east. Its path takes it through farming areas and past small towns. Finally, it meets another river, the Cam River / Ruataniwha. This happens close to the town of Rangiora.
How the River Got its Name
The Cust River was given its name in 1849. It was named after a person called Sir Edward Cust. Sir Edward Cust was a member of the Canterbury Association. This group was important in helping to set up the Canterbury settlement in New Zealand.
The "Main Drain" Story
A part of the Cust River has a special story. The lower section of the river, near Rangiora, was changed. It was directed into a channel called the "Main Drain." This channel was built in 1862. Its purpose was to dry out the wet, swampy land between Rangiora and the Waimakariri River.
In 1868, the "Main Drain" was made bigger. By accident, it ended up taking over the flow of the Cust River. This means a part of the river now flows through this man-made channel.
Fishing in the River
The Cust River is a good place for fishing. Brown trout are a type of fish that live here. They lay their eggs in the river during springtime. This makes spring a good time for people to go fishing for them.
