Gowan River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Te Kauparenui / Gowan River |
|
|---|---|
| Country | New Zealand |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Lake Rotoroa |
| River mouth | Buller River |
| Length | 11 km (6.8 mi) |
The Te Kauparenui / Gowan River is a beautiful river located in the South Island of New Zealand. It starts at Lake Rotoroa and flows for about 11 kilometres (that's about 7 miles!). After its journey, it joins the larger Buller River.
Along the riverbanks, you'll find a mix of farms and forests. The river is also a popular spot for fishing, especially for trout that were introduced there.
Protecting the River
In 2001, a special rule called a Water Conservation Order was put in place for the Te Kauparenui / Gowan River. This rule helps to keep the river in its natural, wild state. It means the river is protected because it's very important and special.
Later, a group wanted to build a power plant that uses water (a hydroelectric scheme) on the river. This would have changed the river's natural flow. However, the Environment Court decided in August 2007 that the river should stay protected. They agreed that keeping the river natural was more important than building the power plant.
River Name Change
The river's name was officially changed in August 2014. It is now known as the Te Kauparenui / Gowan River. This new name includes both the Māori name, Te Kauparenui, and the English name, Gowan River.
