Mathias River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mathias River |
|
|---|---|
| Country | New Zealand |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Southern Alps |
| River mouth | Rakaia River |
| Length | 17 km (11 mi) |
The Mathias River is a river found in the Canterbury area of New Zealand's South Island. It's a beautiful part of the country's natural landscape.
Where the Mathias River Begins
The Mathias River starts high up in the Southern Alps. It actually begins as three smaller rivers. These are called the North, South, and West Mathias Rivers.
The North Mathias River is the longest of these three. It flows mostly south from its starting point. This is northeast of a mountain called Mount Williams. After flowing for about 18 kilometers (11 miles), its water joins with the West Mathias River.
The West Mathias River flows mostly southwest. It travels about 13 kilometers (8 miles) from its sources. These sources are about 10 kilometers (6 miles) west of Mount Williams.
The South Mathias River is a smaller river. It is about 6 kilometers (4 miles) long. It flows east and joins the West Mathias River. This meeting point is about 5 kilometers (3 miles) before the West Mathias joins the North Mathias.
The River's Journey to the Rakaia
Once the North and West Mathias Rivers combine, they form the main Mathias River. This combined river then flows for another 17 kilometers (11 miles). It moves southeast across a wide, flat valley. This valley is filled with river stones and gravel.
The river then meets the larger Rakaia River. This meeting point is about 15 kilometers (9 miles) west of Lake Coleridge.
How the River Got Its Name
The Mathias River was named by a famous explorer. His name was Sir Julius von Haast. He named the river after his friend, Alured George Mathias. This happened during one of Sir Julius von Haast's trips to the Rakaia area.
