Lake Kohangatera facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake Kohangatera |
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 Lake Kohangatera
Location in New Zealand Wellington
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| Location | Wellington Harbour, North Island |
| Coordinates | 41°22′07″S 174°52′00″E / 41.3686°S 174.8668°E |
| Primary inflows | Gollans Stream |
| Catchment area | 17 km2 (6.6 sq mi) |
| Basin countries | New Zealand |
| Surface area | 17 ha (42 acres) |
Lake Kohangatera is one of two lakes found in Fitzroy Bay, which is on the eastern side of New Zealand's Wellington Harbour. This beautiful lake covers an area of about 17 hectares (that's like 17 rugby fields!). It gets its water from Gollans Stream, which starts far away on Mount Lowry, about 14 kilometers to the north. The area that collects rainwater and feeds into the lake, called its drainage basin, is quite large, covering about 1,700 hectares.
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A Special Protected Place
Lake Kohangatera is a very important natural area. It's protected as a wildlife reserve by the DOC, which is New Zealand's government group that looks after nature. Because it's a reserve, you're not allowed to fish there. This helps keep the lake healthy for all the plants and animals that live there.
Part of a Bigger Park
The lake is also part of the East Harbour Regional Park. This park is managed by the Wellington Regional Council, another local government group. Being part of a regional park means the lake and its surroundings are cared for, making sure people can enjoy nature while also protecting it.
How the Lake Was Formed
The southern end of Lake Kohangatera is very close to the sea. It's held back by natural walls made of gravel and sand. These walls were created by old earthquakes that pushed up the land, forming what are called "raised beaches." Over time, these raised beaches acted like a natural dam, allowing the lake to form behind them.
Wildlife and History at the Lake
Lake Kohangatera is important for both its amazing wildlife and its rich history. It's a place where nature thrives and where people have lived for a very long time.
Home to Many Birds
One of the most interesting things about the lake's wildlife is the large group of black shags that live there. These birds, which are also known as great cormorants, have a big colony on the northern side of the lake. They are often seen diving for fish in the water.
Ancient Māori Village
Before Europeans arrived in New Zealand, there was a busy Māori fishing village right by Lake Kohangatera. Archaeologists, who study old human history, have found lots of evidence of this village. This shows that Māori people have had a strong connection to the lake for hundreds of years, using its resources for food and living.
