Kaikiekie / Bradshaw Sound facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kaikiekie / Bradshaw Sound |
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Bradshaw Sound from the east as seen at water level from the dive site "Garden Jules".
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 Kaikiekie / Bradshaw Sound
Location in New Zealand
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| Location | Tasman Sea |
| Coordinates | 45°16′54″S 167°06′04″E / 45.2818°S 167.1010°E |
| Native name | Kaikiekie Error {{native name checker}}: parameter value is malformed (help) |
| River sources | Camelot River, Misty River, Rum River |
| Basin countries | New Zealand |
| Max. width | 1 km (0.62 mi) |
Kaikiekie / Bradshaw Sound is a large fiord in New Zealand. It's part of a bigger group of fiords called the Doubtful Sound/Thompson Sound complex. This fiord is special because it's one of the "dead end" fiords. This means it doesn't connect to another body of water at its far end.
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What's in a Name? The History of Kaikiekie / Bradshaw Sound
This fiord was named by Captain Stokes. He was in charge of a ship called HMS Acheron. Captain Stokes decided to name the fiord after his first mate, R. Bradshaw.
The Māori have their own name for the fiord: Kaikiekie. This name means "to eat kiekie." The kiekie is a native climbing plant found in New Zealand. In October 2019, the fiord's name was officially changed to Kaikiekie / Bradshaw Sound. This change recognizes both its Māori and European names.
Exploring Kaikiekie / Bradshaw Sound's Geography
At the very end of Kaikiekie / Bradshaw Sound, it splits into two smaller arms. To the north, you'll find a short arm called Precipice Cove. To the south, there's a longer arm known as Kutu Parera (Gaer Arm).
Precipice Cove: A Safe Harbor
The northern arm, Precipice Cove, has an island called Macdonell Island at its entrance. This island helps protect the cove from strong westerly winds. Because it's so sheltered, many small tour companies use Precipice Cove. It's a great place for boats to anchor safely overnight. The Misty River flows into this peaceful cove.
Kutu Parera (Gaer Arm): A Special Marine Reserve
The southern arm, Kutu Parera (Gaer Arm), is a special place. It's a marine reserve. This means there are strict rules to protect the plants and animals living there. These rules are tougher than in other parts of Bradshaw Sound. The Camelot River flows into this southern arm.
Amazing Wildlife and Fun Activities
Like the rest of the fiord system, Kaikiekie / Bradshaw Sound is full of amazing wildlife. You might spot bottlenose dolphins swimming in the water. Penguins also live here, along with rare black coral. Both arms at the end of Bradshaw Sound offer great chances to explore. You can paddle a kayak through the calm waters. Or, you can go diving in spots like the shallow dive site called Garden Jules.
Getting to this area by land is difficult. The best way to explore Kaikiekie / Bradshaw Sound is by boat. Boats often leave from Deep Cove.
