Waiau River (Southland) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Waiau River
Looking out on the Waiau River
The Waiau River system
Country	New Zealand
Physical characteristics
Main source	184 m (604 ft)
River mouth	Foveaux Strait 0 m (0 ft)

The Waiau River is the biggest river in the Southland area of New Zealand. Its name, 'Waiau', means 'River of Swirling Currents'. This river starts at Lake Te Anau. It flows about 10 km (6 mi) south into Lake Manapouri. From there, it travels another 70 km (43 mi) south. Finally, it reaches the Foveaux Strait, which is about 8 km (5 mi) south of Tuatapere. The Waiau River also gets water from Lake Monowai.

You might have seen the upper part of the Waiau River in movies! It was used as the fictional River Anduin in the first The Lord of the Rings film. This is where the Uruk-hai chased the Fellowship along the riverbanks. People even suggested naming a part of the river "Anduin Reach" to honor New Zealand filmmaker Peter Jackson. However, the New Zealand Geographic Board decided not to in 2009.

Where Does the Waiau River Flow?

The Waiau River is the largest river system in the southwest of New Zealand's South Island. It begins with water from the Eglinton and Clinton Rivers. These rivers flow into Lake Te Anau. Lake Te Anau is one of two big lakes in the Waiau system. Other rivers that feed Lake Te Anau include the Glaisnock River, Wapiti, Doon, and Upukerora Rivers. Many smaller streams, called "burns," also join in.

The Waiau River then flows from the southern end of Lake Te Anau. It winds for about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) before entering Lake Manapouri. This is the second large lake in the Waiau system. Lake Manapouri also gets water from the Spey and Grebe Rivers. Other streams like the Freeman, Awe, and Iris Burn also flow into it.

The Waiau River leaves Lake Manapouri near the small town of Manapouri. Soon after, it meets the Mararoa River. From this point, the Waiau continues south across a flat area. Many small creeks and burns join it, such as the Excelsior, Whare, and Redcliff Creeks. At Monowai, the Monowai River joins the Waiau. The Monowai River flows from another lake called Lake Monowai.

As the river gets closer to the coast, it becomes wider. It has several small, low-lying islands in its channels. At its mouth, in Te Waewae Bay, the river forms a long lagoon. This lagoon is separated from the sea by a narrow sandbar.

Plants and Animals Around the Waiau River

The forests around the Waiau River are home to many different plants and animals. In Fiordland National Park, you can find many types of ferns. One example is the crown fern.

Several kinds of endangered birds live near Lake Te Anau and the upper Waiau River. The Takahē is one of these rare birds. There is a special area called the Murchison Mountains that protects these birds. The western shore of Lake Te Anau also has the Te Ana-au Caves. Lake Te Anau got its name from these caves.

Sometimes, high levels of natural algae can grow in the Waiau River. This can happen when there are many nutrients or dirt washing into the water. It is also more likely when it is hot and the river flows slowly.

In 2019, the New Zealand Government started a project called 'Thriving Southland'. They gave money to help farmers and growers in Southland. This project aims to help them farm in ways that are better for the environment.

Protecting the River's Wildlife

Near the mouth of the Waiau River, there are special wetlands called Te Wae Wae. These wetlands were built by the Waiau Fisheries and Wildlife Habitat Enhancement Trust. They cover 25 hectares (62 acres) of land. This wetland area helps young whitebait fish grow. It also provides a home for other wetland animals to breed. This is the largest of several wetland areas the trust has created. Their goal is to increase the number of native species and improve the river's water quality.

The Waiau Fisheries and Wildlife Habitat Enhancement Trust started in 1996. They work to reduce the effects of the Manapōuri Hydro Electric Power Scheme. The trust also works with landowners and farmers to improve waterways. For example, they help filter water that runs off farms. They also put fences to keep farm animals away from the water. This helps the Waiau River become healthier.

Fun Things to Do at the Waiau River

In 2007, the Fiordland Trails Trust began building a bike path. This path goes along the banks of the Upper Waiau River. It connects the towns of Te Anau and Manapouri.

A survey was done in 2007 for the "Anduin Reach" area. They suggested names for landmarks based on The Lord of the Rings films. They thought naming it "Anduin Reach" would help promote the bike path project.

There are twelve wetland areas that are open to the public for walking and enjoying nature. The Upper Waiau River is a popular place for fishing. People often catch brown trout and salmon there.

Since 2017, two companies, Southern Scenic Jetboat and Fiordland Jet, offer jetboat rides on the Waiau River.