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Waikawa River facts for kids

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Waikawa River
Country New Zealand
Physical characteristics
Main source near Tokanui
River mouth Waikawa
Length 23 km (14 mi)

The Waikawa River is a river in New Zealand. It flows east and then south through an area called the Catlins. This area is in the southern part of New Zealand's South Island. The river is about 23 kilometers (14 miles) long. It ends by flowing into the Pacific Ocean near a town called Waikawa. Near where it meets the ocean, the river has a small set of waterfalls. They are playfully called Niagara Falls, even though they are much smaller than the famous Niagara Falls.

Where the Waikawa River Starts

The Waikawa River begins about 15 kilometers (9 miles) east of a town called Fortrose. This is where the river's journey to the ocean begins.

Meaning of the Name Waikawa

The name Waikawa comes from the Māori language. The New Zealand Ministry for Culture and Heritage explains that "Waikawa" means "bitter water."


See also

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