Ongarue River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ongarue River |
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The Ongarue River near the mouth at Taumarunui
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| Native name | Ōngarue |
| Country | New Zealand |
| Region | Manawatū-Whanganui |
| Towns | Taumarunui |
| Settlements | Ongarue, Waimiha |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Hauhungaroa Range Pureora 1,100 m (3,600 ft) 38°33′14″S 175°37′48″E / 38.55389°S 175.63000°E |
| River mouth | Whanganui River Taumarunui 144 m (472 ft) 38°53′31″S 175°15′11″E / 38.89194°S 175.25306°E |
| Length | 73 km (45 mi) |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | Ongarue River → Whanganui River |
| River system | Whanganui River |
| Tributaries |
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| Waterfalls | Wilton Falls, Kawauariki Falls |
The Ongarue River is a cool river in the Waikato and Manawatū-Whanganui regions of New Zealand's North Island. It's a big helper to the Whanganui River, which is one of New Zealand's longest rivers! The Ongarue River starts in the Hauhungaroa Range and flows through places like Taumarunui before joining the Whanganui River. Its name, Ōngarue, comes from the Maori people and means "place of shaking."
Contents
Discover the Ongarue River
Where Does the Ongarue River Start and End?
The Ongarue River begins high up in the Hauhungaroa Range, which is a mountain range. It starts near a place called Pureora. This is about 1,100 meters (around 3,600 feet) above sea level!
From its source, the river flows west and then south. It travels through the town of Taumarunui. Finally, the Ongarue River joins the much larger Whanganui River. This meeting point is also in Taumarunui.
How Long is the Ongarue River?
The Ongarue River is about 73 kilometers (around 45 miles) long. That's a pretty good distance for a river! It winds its way through the landscape, collecting water from smaller streams along the way.
What Rivers Join the Ongarue?
Many smaller rivers and streams flow into the Ongarue River. These are called tributaries. They add more water to the main river. Two important rivers that join the Ongarue are:
- The Maramataha River
- The Taringamotu River
These rivers help make the Ongarue River bigger and stronger as it flows towards the Whanganui River.
Waterfalls on the Ongarue River
The Ongarue River is home to some beautiful waterfalls. Two of these are:
- Wilton Falls
- Kawauariki Falls
Waterfalls are natural wonders where river water drops over a steep edge. They are often very scenic!
