Waikari River (Hawke's Bay) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Waikari River |
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Country | New Zealand |
Physical characteristics | |
Main source | Maungaharuru Range 870 metres (2,850 ft) |
River mouth | Hawke Bay 0 m (0 ft) |
Length | 35 km (22 mi) |
The Waikari River is a river found in the Hawke's Bay area of New Zealand. This region is located on the eastern side of New Zealand's North Island. The river flows for about 35 kilometers (22 miles).
About the Waikari River
The Waikari River starts its journey high up in the Maungaharuru Range. This mountain range is in the northern part of Hawke's Bay. From there, the river generally flows towards the east.
Where the River Flows
As the Waikari River travels, it makes its way to Hawke Bay. This bay is a large inlet of the Pacific Ocean. The river's mouth, where it meets the sea, is about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) southwest of a town called Wairoa.
The 1931 Earthquake and the River
In 1931, a very strong earthquake hit the Hawke's Bay region. This event is known as the 1931 Hawke's Bay earthquake. After the earthquake, a large ocean wave, called a tsunami, reached the mouth of the Waikari River. This powerful wave pushed fish far inland. Some fish were found as high as 15 meters (49 feet) above the normal high tide level.