Mangatainoka River facts for kids

The Mangatainoka River is a river that flows in the Tararua District of New Zealand's North Island. Its water is known for being very clean. This is why a famous brewery was built right there.

About the Mangatainoka River

The Mangatainoka River starts high up in the Tararua Range. This is on the eastern side, southwest of a town called Eketahuna. The river flows generally alongside the main Wairarapa Line railway and State Highway 2. It goes through the Tararua District.

The river then joins the Tiraumea River. Soon after, it meets the larger Manawatu River. This meeting point, called a confluence, is just south of Woodville. The small town of Mangatainoka is also located on the river's banks. This town is north of Pahiatua.

What Does Its Name Mean?

The name Mangatainoka has a special meaning. The New Zealand Ministry for Culture and Heritage explains it. It means "native broom stream." Native broom is a type of plant.

How People Changed the River

Long ago, before Europeans came to New Zealand, the river looked very different. The shallow river banks were covered with thick forests. These forests had large matai, rimu, and totara trees. These trees helped stop serious floods. They also kept the nearby lands swampy and wet.

However, people started to cut down many trees. They also drained the land to create farms. This big change made the river flow much faster. It also made the river's channel (its path) deeper. This led to more erosion, which is when the river wears away its banks. The river also started to "meander" more. This means it began to curve and wind. It was trying to slow down its flow again.

These changes caused big floods. For example, in October 2000, a flood caused a lot of damage. It affected the local council's efforts to protect the river.

Fishing in the River

The Mangatainoka River is a very popular spot for fishing. Many people come here to catch trout. About 50 kilometres (31 miles) of the river is good for fishing. It is also easy to get to the river. This is because it is close to State Highway 2 and major towns in the northern Wairarapa area.

Images for kids

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  The Tui Brewery in Mangatainoka

• The Mangatainoka River, Seventy Mile Bush, N.Z.jpg

  The Mangatainoka River in Seventy Mile Bush, N.Z.