Douglas River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Douglas River |
|
|---|---|
| Country | New Zealand |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Southern Alps |
| River mouth | Karangarua River |
| Length | 18 kilometres (11 mi) |
The Douglas River, once known as the Twain, is a river found on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. It starts high up in the mountains and flows through a beautiful national park. This river is named after a famous explorer.
Contents
Discover the Douglas River
Where is this River Located?
The Douglas River is located in the West Coast area of New Zealand's South Island. Its entire journey takes place inside the amazing Westland Tai Poutini National Park. This park is famous for its stunning glaciers, tall mountains, and thick forests.
How Does the Douglas River Flow?
The river begins high in the Southern Alps. Its source is about five kilometres south of a mountain called Mount Sefton. The river gets its water from the Douglas Glacier in its upper parts.
The Douglas River flows west for about 18 kilometres (which is about 11 miles). As it travels, it's joined by water from another glacier, the Horace Walker Glacier. Finally, the Douglas River flows into the Karangarua River.
Who Was Charles Edward Douglas?
The Douglas River and the Douglas Glacier are both named after a person named Charles Edward Douglas. He was an explorer and mountaineer who lived in the 1800s. He spent a lot of time exploring the wild and rugged areas of New Zealand's West Coast.
Places to Visit Along the River
The New Zealand Department of Conservation helps look after the natural areas of New Zealand. They maintain a special backcountry hut at the spot where the Douglas River and the Horace Walker River meet. These huts are simple shelters for people who are hiking or exploring in remote areas.
