Waihopai River (Southland) facts for kids
The Waihopai River is a river located in the South Island of New Zealand. It flows through the Southland Region. This river is one of two rivers in New Zealand that share the same name.
About the Waihopai River
The Waihopai River starts as several small streams. These streams begin in the low hills between the towns of Edendale and Dacre. They mostly flow towards the west-southwest. The streams pass near or through the town of Woodlands.
How the River Flows
The small streams gradually join together. They form one larger river about 15 kilometers (9 miles) east of Invercargill. From this point, the Waihopai River flows west. It passes through the northern parts of Invercargill City. Then, it turns south. The river flows between the main area of Invercargill and the Invercargill Airport. Finally, the Waihopai River flows into the northern end of the New River Estuary at Stead Street Bridge. For much of its 40-kilometer (25-mile) length, it is a narrow stream.
What's in the Name?
The river's name, Waihopai, is also the Māori name for the city of Invercargill. This shows the strong connection between the river and the area's history and culture.
