Rangitahi Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rangitahi Lake |
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Lake Rangitai
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 Rangitahi Lake
Location in Chatham Islands
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| Location | Chatham Island, Chatham Islands |
| Coordinates | 43°46′S 176°21′W / 43.767°S 176.350°W |
| Basin countries | New Zealand |
| Surface area | 867 ha (2,140 acres) |
| Max. depth | 1.3 m (4 ft 3 in) |
Rangitahi Lake, sometimes spelled Rangitai, is a beautiful lake found in the Chatham Islands of New Zealand. It sits on Chatham Island itself. You can find it to the northeast of Te Whanga Lagoon, near the northern end of Hanson Bay. This lake is an important natural feature in the area.
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Rangitahi Lake
What Kind of Lake Is It?
Rangitahi Lake is a special type of lake called a dune-dammed lake. This means it was formed when sand dunes blocked a river or stream. The water then collected behind these dunes, creating the lake. It covers a large area of about 867 ha (2,140 acres). The deepest part of the lake is about 1.3 m (4 ft 3 in) deep.
Clear Waters and Plant Life
One cool thing about Rangitahi Lake is how clear its water is. You can see more than 10 m (33 ft) underwater! This makes it much clearer than other lakes nearby. In the deeper parts of the lake, you'll find special water plants. These plants are mostly a type of algae called Charophytes. Two common types found here are Lamprothamnium and Nitella hyalina. These plants help keep the lake healthy.
Water for the Community
Rangitahi Lake is also very important for the people living nearby. It provides the main water supply for the town of Kaingaroa. This town is about 6 km (3.7 mi) away from the lake. So, the lake plays a big role in supporting the local community.
