Harper River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Harper River |
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Harper River by its confluence with Hamilton Creek (2019)
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Location of the mouth within New Zealand
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| Country | New Zealand |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Southern Alps |
| River mouth | Wilberforce River |
The Harper River is a cool river in New Zealand's Canterbury region. It's a branch of the Wilberforce River, which then flows into the bigger Rakaia River. You can find the Harper River in the amazing Southern Alps.
A mountain pass near the Harper River's source connects to the Waimakariri River area. This makes it a popular spot for hikers and explorers.
Contents
Discovering the Harper River
Where is the Harper River Located?
The Harper River starts high up in the Southern Alps. A popular hiking trail, known as a tramping route, goes through the East Harper River area. This trail starts at Cass Saddle and ends at Lagoon Saddle, which is at the beginning of the West Harper River.
How the River Helps Make Electricity
The water from the Harper River and its main branch, the Avoca River, is used for a special purpose. In 1921, a structure called the Harper Diversion was built. This structure sends the river's water into Lake Coleridge.
This project helps create hydroelectricity. Hydroelectricity is a way to make electricity using the power of moving water. It's a clean and renewable energy source.
Studying Nature Along the River
The area around the Harper and Avoca Rivers is called a catchment. This catchment has been a very important place for scientists to study nature. Since the mid-1950s, a lot of ecological research has happened here. Scientists learn about plants, animals, and how they live together in this environment.
Exploring the Harper River Area
The Harper River area is well-known to explorers and hikers. There are several huts available for people to stay in. These huts are found in places like Lagoon and Cass Saddles, along the West Harper, and at the meeting point of the two Harper branches.
Early European explorers also documented the Harper River. Famous explorers like Julius von Haast and Samuel Butler wrote about their journeys here. Their records help us understand the river's history.
