Franklin Mountains (New Zealand) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Franklin Mountains |
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Te Ahi-a-Mahuika | |
Highest point | |
Peak | Mount Kane |
Elevation | 1,714 m (5,623 ft) |
Naming | |
Etymology | Named by James McKerrow in honour of John Franklin |
Geography | |
Location | Southwestern South Island |
Country | New Zealand |
Range coordinates | 44°54′58″S 167°43′01″E / 44.916°S 167.717°E |
Geology | |
Orogeny | Tectonic uplift |
The Franklin Mountains are a group of tall peaks in New Zealand. You can find them in the southwestern part of the South Island. These mountains are located between a sea inlet called Bligh Sound and a large lake named Lake Te Anau. They are also part of the amazing Fiordland National Park.
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Where are the Franklin Mountains?
The Franklin Mountains are in a very special part of New Zealand. This area is known for its stunning natural beauty. It's on the South Island, which is one of New Zealand's two main islands. The mountains stretch out in a wild, untouched landscape.
Fiordland National Park
These mountains are inside Fiordland National Park. This park is one of the biggest national parks in the world. It is famous for its deep fiords, tall mountains, and thick forests. Many people visit Fiordland to see its amazing scenery.
What are the Franklin Mountains like?
The Franklin Mountains are made up of several peaks. The highest point in the range is called Mount Kane. It stands very tall at 1,714 meters (about 5,623 feet) high. These mountains were formed by something called Tectonic uplift. This is when huge pieces of the Earth's crust push against each other. Over millions of years, this pushing created the tall peaks we see today.
The mountains are often covered in snow during winter. They have steep slopes and rugged edges. The weather in this area can change very quickly. It can be sunny one moment and then rainy the next.
Who named the Franklin Mountains?
The Franklin Mountains got their name from a man named James McKerrow. He was a surveyor in New Zealand. A surveyor is someone who measures and maps out land. McKerrow named the mountains to honor John Franklin. John Franklin was a famous explorer from Britain. He was known for his journeys to the Arctic regions.
Exploring the Area
The area around the Franklin Mountains is a great place for nature lovers. Fiordland National Park offers many activities. You can go hiking on trails or take boat trips through the fiords. The park is home to unique plants and animals. It's a wild and beautiful place to explore.