Heaphy River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Heaphy River |
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Nikau palms along the Heaphy River
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| Country | New Zealand |
| Physical characteristics | |
| River mouth | Tasman Sea (Karamea Bight) |
| Length | 26 kilometres (16 mi) |
The Heaphy River is a beautiful river located in the northwest part of the South Island of New Zealand. It flows through a special place called Kahurangi National Park, which is known for its amazing nature. The river eventually reaches the Tasman Sea, which is part of the Pacific Ocean.
Contents
Discover the Heaphy River
Where the River Flows
The Heaphy River starts high up on the northern side of a mountain called Amohia Peak. From there, it flows mostly towards the northwest, then turns southwest. After traveling about 26 kilometers (around 16 miles), it empties into the Tasman Sea. This spot is about 30 kilometers (19 miles) north of a town called Karamea.
A famous walking trail, the Heaphy Track, follows the lower part of this river. Hikers on the track reach the coast right where the river meets the sea.
Who Was Charles Heaphy?
The Heaphy River is named after a person named Charles Heaphy. He was a soldier and an explorer who visited this area way back in the 1840s. He helped map and explore parts of New Zealand.
Other Rivers Joining In
The Heaphy River has other smaller rivers that flow into it. These are called tributaries. The main ones that are also called "river" are the Lewis River and the Gunner River. They join the Heaphy River as it flows towards the sea.
