Waitoa River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Waitoa River |
|
|---|---|
| Country | New Zealand |
| Physical characteristics | |
| River mouth | Piako River |
| Length | 62 km (39 mi) |
The Waitoa River is an important river in the Waikato Region of New Zealand's North Island. It flows for about 62 kilometers (38 miles). This river starts near Piarere, which is north of Lake Karapiro.
It first flows towards the northeast. Then, it turns north. The river travels through the Hinuera Gap and across the Hinuera Plains. It passes west of towns like Matamata, Walton, and Waharoa.
The Waitoa River then flows through the settlement of Waitoa. It reaches the southern part of the Hauraki Plains. Finally, it joins with the Piako River. This meeting point is in the Kopuatai Peat Dome wetland. This wetland is about 15 kilometers north of Morrinsville.
How the Waitoa River Formed
The Waitoa River's path today is quite interesting. It mostly follows where the Waikato River used to flow. The Waikato River is New Zealand's longest river.
A Giant Volcanic Eruption
About 25,000 years ago, a huge event changed the landscape. This was the Oruanui eruption. It was one of the largest volcanic eruptions ever. This eruption drastically changed the path of the Waikato River.
Because of this massive change, the Waitoa River now flows in the old path of the Waikato River. This shows how powerful natural events can shape our world.
