West Cape facts for kids
Quick facts for kids West Cape |
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West Cape & Newton River Mouth, Fiordland, New Zealand
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 Location in Fiordland
 Location in New Zealand
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| Location | Fiordland, Southland District, New Zealand |
| Coordinates | 45°54′22″S 166°25′39″E / 45.9060°S 166.4276°E |
| Offshore water bodies | Tasman Sea |
| Geology | Cape |
West Cape is a special place in New Zealand. It is the very westernmost point of the country's main islands. Imagine drawing a line from the top to the bottom of the South Island; West Cape would be at the furthest point to the left!
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West Cape: New Zealand's Far Western Tip
West Cape is found in the far southwest of New Zealand's South Island. It sits inside the amazing Fiordland National Park. This area is known for its stunning natural beauty.
Where is West Cape Located?
West Cape is located between two large water areas called Tamatea / Dusky Sound and Taiari / Chalky Inlet. A "sound" is like a long, narrow bay or inlet of the sea. The cape itself is a small area with rocky shores. It also has gently sloping land covered in green forests. Just north of the cape, you'll find the mouth of the Newton River. This is where the river flows into the sea.
What are Cardinal Capes?
West Cape is one of four important places in New Zealand known as the "Cardinal Capes." These capes were named by Captain James Cook. He was a famous explorer who sailed to New Zealand between 1769 and 1770. He named these points to mark the main directions of the country.
The Four Cardinal Capes
The four Cardinal Capes named by Captain Cook are:
- North Cape: This is the northernmost point.
- Cape East: This marks the easternmost side.
- Cape South: This is the southernmost point.
- West Cape: This is the westernmost point.
These capes helped early explorers understand the shape of New Zealand. They are still important landmarks today.
