kids encyclopedia robot

Waingawa River facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Waingawa River
Country New Zealand
Physical characteristics
Main source The Mitre, Tararua Range.
River mouth Te Whiti, Ruamahanga River
Length 48 km (30 mi)

The Waingawa River is an important river in the Greater Wellington Region of New Zealand. It is located on the North Island and is a big branch, or tributary, of the Ruamahanga River.

About the Waingawa River

The Waingawa River is about 48 km (30 mi) long. It plays a key role in the local area, providing water and marking boundaries.

Where the River Starts

The Waingawa River begins high up in the mountains. Its source is near The Mitre, which is the tallest peak in the Tararua Range. Imagine the water starting its journey from a very high place!

Where the River Flows

After leaving the mountains, the river flows in a straight line. It travels southeast across a flat area called the Wairarapa Valley. Finally, it joins the Ruamahanga River near a place called Te Whiti, close to Wardell's Bridge. The Waingawa River also forms the southwestern edge of the town of Masterton.

Water for Masterton

The town of Masterton gets its drinking water from the Waingawa River. The water is piped from the river to a special treatment plant. This plant, run by the Masterton District Council, cleans the water. It is located about 10 kilometres west of the town.

Excursion, a steam locomotive crosses the Waingawa River in 2017
Waingawa railway bridge and the foothills of the Tararuas in November 2017. The bridge entered service in November 1880
kids search engine
Waingawa River Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.