Lake Mapourika facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake Mapourika |
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 Lake Mapourika
Location in New Zealand
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| Location | Westland District, West Coast Region, South Island |
| Coordinates | 43°19′S 170°12′E / 43.317°S 170.200°E |
| Basin countries | New Zealand |
Lake Mapourika is a beautiful lake found on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. It sits just north of the famous Franz Josef Glacier. Water flows out of the lake through the Ōkārito River, eventually reaching the Ōkārito Lagoon.
Lake Mapourika is the biggest lake on the West Coast. It was formed a very long time ago during the last ice age by a huge glacier. Today, water from melting glaciers no longer flows into the lake. Instead, it is filled with fresh rainwater. This rain washes through the nearby forest floor, picking up natural plant materials called tannins. These tannins give the lake its unique dark, tea-like color.
The area around Lake Mapourika is often calm. Winds usually blow high above the tall Southern Alps mountains. This means the lake's surface stays very still and clear. It often perfectly reflects the green forest that surrounds its edges, creating a stunning view.
