Waita River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Waita River |
|
|---|---|
| Country | New Zealand |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Mataketake Range |
| River mouth | Tasman Sea |
| Length | 17 km (11 mi) |
The Waita River is a beautiful river found in the West Coast Region of New Zealand's South Island. It flows for about 17 kilometers (11 miles). The river starts high up in the Mataketake Range mountains. From there, it travels west through thick native forests. Eventually, it reaches the Tasman Sea, which is part of the Pacific Ocean.
About the Waita River
The Waita River is an important part of the West Coast landscape. It begins on the western side of the Mataketake Range. As it flows, the river passes through different types of land. First, it goes through dense native bush. Then, the land opens up into farms. Finally, the river flows under State Highway 6.
Where the River Flows
The Waita River gets its water from the Mataketake Range. It flows generally towards the west. About 10 kilometers northeast of the Haast River's mouth, the Waita River meets the Tasman Sea. A smaller river, the Maori River, also joins the Waita River as one of its branches.
Homes by the River
After the State Highway crosses the Waita River, you can find several small homes. These homes are called baches in New Zealand. Baches are like holiday homes or small cabins. About seven people live in these baches all year round. Some of these homes are very old, dating back to the 1900s. This gives them special historical value.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) looks after the land where these baches are. For a while, DOC wanted to remove the baches by 2025. This was because their policy usually avoids private homes on public land. However, after discussions, the final plan changed. The baches are now allowed to stay. But, if possible, they should be made available for the public to use sometimes.
