Waiwhakaiho River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Waiwhakaiho River |
|
|---|---|
| Country | New Zealand |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Taranaki/Mount Egmont 2,000 m (6,600 ft) |
| River mouth | North Taranaki Bight 0 m (0 ft) |
| Length | 30 km (19 mi) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 136 km2 (53 sq mi) |
The Waiwhakaiho River is a cool river found in the Taranaki Region on New Zealand's North Island. It's one of many rivers that start high up on the slopes of Taranaki/Mount Egmont, which is a famous mountain. The river flows for about 30 kilometers (19 miles) before it reaches the Tasman Sea.
It's an important part of the local area, providing a home for wildlife and a place for people to enjoy nature. Near the sea, you can find the amazing Te Rewa Rewa Bridge crossing over it.
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About the Waiwhakaiho River
The Waiwhakaiho River begins its journey high up on Taranaki/Mount Egmont. This mountain is a dormant volcano and a very special place in New Zealand. As the river flows down, it collects water from many smaller streams. This makes it grow bigger and stronger.
The river's path takes it through different landscapes. It starts in the mountains, then flows through farmland and closer to towns. Rivers like the Waiwhakaiho are vital for the environment. They help keep the land healthy and provide water for plants and animals.
Where Does It Flow?
The Waiwhakaiho River first flows towards the northeast. Then, it turns and heads northwest. Its final destination is the Tasman Sea. This sea is part of the larger Pacific Ocean. The river meets the sea near a suburb of New Plymouth called Fitzroy.
The area where the river meets the sea is called an estuary. Estuaries are special places where fresh river water mixes with salty ocean water. They are often home to unique plants and animals that can live in both types of water.
Bridges and Connections
The Waiwhakaiho River is crossed by several important bridges. One of the most famous is the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge. This bridge is known for its amazing design, which looks a bit like a breaking wave or a whale's skeleton. It's a popular spot for photos and a landmark in the area.
The Te Rewa Rewa Bridge is part of the coastal walkway. This walkway connects the city of New Plymouth with another town called Bell Block. It's a great path for walking, running, and cycling, offering beautiful views of the coast and the river.
Besides the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, the river is also crossed by other important routes. These include State Highway 3 (SH3), which is a main road for cars and trucks. There's also a railway line, the Marton–New Plymouth line, that crosses the river. These bridges help people and goods move around the Taranaki region.
Importance of the River
The Waiwhakaiho River is important for many reasons. It provides fresh water for the local area. It also supports a variety of wildlife, including fish and birds. People enjoy the river for activities like fishing and kayaking.
Looking after rivers like the Waiwhakaiho is very important. This helps to keep the water clean and healthy for everyone. It also protects the plants and animals that live in and around the river.
