Kawhatau River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kawhatau River |
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|---|---|
| Native name | Kawhatau |
| Region | Manawatū-Whanganui |
| District | Rangitikei District |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Ohuinga Ruahine Range 39°51′33″S 176°07′50″E / 39.85920°S 176.13065°E |
| River mouth | Rangitikei River 365m 39°46′27″S 175°48′30″E / 39.77417°S 175.80833°E |
| Basin features | |
| River system | Rangitikei River |
| Basin size | 23,000ha |
| Tributaries |
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The Kawhatau River is a river located in the southwestern part of the North Island of New Zealand. It begins its journey high up in the Ruahine Range mountains. The river flows along until it meets the larger Rangitikei River. This meeting point is close to the town of Mangaweka.
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Exploring the Kawhatau River
The Kawhatau River is an important natural feature in the Manawatū-Whanganui region. It plays a role in the local environment and the wider Rangitikei District. Understanding rivers like the Kawhatau helps us learn about New Zealand's geography.
Where Does It Start?
The Kawhatau River starts in a place called Ohuinga. This area is found within the Ruahine Range. The Ruahine Range is a mountain range in the lower North Island of New Zealand. Rivers often begin in high places like mountains. Here, rain and melting snow collect to form small streams. These streams then join together to create a larger river.
Its Journey to the Sea
From its source, the Kawhatau River flows through the landscape. It travels across the land, collecting water from smaller streams along the way. Eventually, the Kawhatau River reaches its end point. It flows into the Rangitikei River. The Rangitikei River is one of the longest rivers in the North Island. The Kawhatau River joins the Rangitikei River near the small town of Mangaweka. This meeting point is about 365 meters above sea level.
Why Rivers Are Important
Rivers like the Kawhatau are very important for many reasons.
- They provide fresh water for plants and animals.
- They create homes for fish and other aquatic creatures.
- Rivers can also be used for fun activities like kayaking or fishing.
- They help shape the land over many years.
- Rivers also carry nutrients and sediments, which are important for the surrounding environment.
The area around the Kawhatau River, known as its basin, covers about 23,000 hectares. This large area shows how much land the river influences.
