Lake Te Anau facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake Te Anau |
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 Lake Te Anau
Location in South Island
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Lake Te Anau
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| Location | Southland District, Southland Region, South Island |
| Coordinates | 45°12′S 167°48′E / 45.200°S 167.800°E |
| Primary inflows | Eglinton River, Clinton River, Worsley River, Glaisnock River, Wapiti River, Doon River, McKenzie Burn, Upukerora River |
| Primary outflows | Waiau River |
| Basin countries | New Zealand |
| Max. length | 65 km (40 mi) |
| Surface area | 344 km2 (133 sq mi) |
| Max. depth | 417 m (1,368 ft) |
| Surface elevation | 210 m (690 ft) |
| Settlements | Te Anau |
Lake Te Anau is a huge lake located in the southwest of New Zealand's South Island. It is the second-largest lake in New Zealand by surface area. Only Lake Taupo is bigger. It is also the largest lake in the South Island.
This amazing lake holds the most fresh water of any lake in Australia and New Zealand. It stretches about 65 kilometers (40 miles) from north to south.
Contents
Lake Features and Surroundings
Lake Te Anau has a unique shape. Three large arms, called fiords, reach out from its western side. These are North Fiord, Middle Fiord, and South Fiord. These are the only inland fiords found in New Zealand. All other fiords are along the coast.
The lake's surface is 210 meters (689 feet) above sea level. But it is very deep, reaching 417 meters (1,368 feet) at its deepest point. This means much of the lake's bottom is actually below sea level.
Several rivers flow into Lake Te Anau. The most important one is the Eglinton River. The water then flows out through the Waiau River. This river travels a few kilometers south to Lake Manapouri.
The town of Te Anau is located at the southeastern end of the lake. It is close to where the Waiau River begins.
National Park and World Heritage Site
Most of Lake Te Anau is part of Fiordland National Park. This park is a huge protected area. The lake is also within the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage site. This site was recognized internationally in 1990 for its special natural beauty.
Besides the town of Te Anau, there is only one other small settlement nearby. It is called Te Anau Downs. This farming area is near the Eglinton River. Most of the land around the lake is mountainous. The Kepler and Murchison Mountains rise high above the western shore.
History of Lake Te Anau
Lake Te Anau was very important to the Ngai Tahu iwi (a Māori tribe) long ago. It was a traditional stopping point on their journeys. They traveled between the east and west coasts of the South Island. Here, they found food and other important resources.
European explorers first discovered the lake in 1852. Their names were Charles Naim and William Stephen.
Great Walks of New Zealand
Two famous walking trails, known as New Zealand Great Walks, start at Lake Te Anau.
- The Milford Track begins at the northern tip of the lake.
- The Kepler Track starts and ends at the southern tip, near the Waiau River.
What Does "Te Anau" Mean?
The meaning of the Māori name "Te Anau" has been discussed for a long time. Many people once thought it was the name of a chief's granddaughter. Her name was Te Anau, and a mountain in the Longwood Range is now named after her.
However, in 1948, the Te Ana-au Caves were rediscovered. This led to a new understanding of the name. The full name, Te Ana-au, means 'The cave of swirling water' in Māori.
Plants and Animals of Lake Te Anau
Many different kinds of plants and animals live around Lake Te Anau. The plant life includes various types of ferns. One common fern is the crown fern, also known as Blechnum discolor.
Endangered Birds and Their Sanctuary
Several endangered birds live near the lake's shores. The most famous is the takahē (Notornis hochstetteri). These rare birds have a special protected area. It is called the Murchison Mountains sanctuary. This sanctuary is located between the Middle and South Fiords. The western shore of the lake is also home to the Te Ana-au Caves.
Fun Activities at Lake Te Anau
During the summer, Lake Te Anau is a popular spot for many activities. People enjoy boating, fishing, and kayaking. Swimming is also a favorite way to cool off. The lake also provides access to Fiordland National Park.
The Marakura Yacht Club and the Te Anau Boating Club are both located on the lake. Each year, a fishing competition is held on the weekend of Labour Day.
See also
In Spanish: Lago Te Anau para niños
