Mangapapa River (Bay of Plenty) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mangapapa River |
|
|---|---|
Mangapapa River at McLaren Falls, where it meets the Mangakarengorengo River
|
|
| Country | New Zealand |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Kaimai Range |
| River mouth | Lake McLaren 81 m (266 ft) |
The Mangapapa River is a river found in the beautiful Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand's North Island. It's an important part of the local environment and also plays a role in creating electricity for people living nearby.
Contents
Exploring the Mangapapa River
The Mangapapa River starts its journey high up in the mountains. It begins on the northern slopes of the Mamaku Plateau, which is at the southern end of the Kaimai Range.
Where the River Flows
As the river flows, it eventually meets the Opuiaki River. This meeting point is at the very beginning of Lake McLaren. From Lake McLaren, the water then flows into the Wairoa River. This happens a short distance downstream from the lake, close to where another river, the Mangakarengorengo River, also joins the Wairoa River.
How the River Helps Make Power
The Mangapapa River is special because it's part of a big project called the Kaimai hydro power scheme. This project uses the natural power of flowing water to make electricity.
Power Stations on the River
There are two main power stations located along the Mangapapa River:
- The Lloyd Mandeno Power Station is a large station that can produce 15.6 megawatts of power. It's built on the left side of the river. This station uses water that has been brought in from other nearby streams.
- About 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) downstream from the Lloyd Mandeno Power Station, you'll find a concrete arch dam. This dam is home to the Lower Mangapapa Power Station, which can generate 6.25 megawatts of electricity.
These power stations help provide clean energy for homes and businesses in the region, showing how rivers can be used for both nature and human needs.
