Whakaki Lagoon facts for kids
Whakakī lagoon is a small lagoon located on the east coast of New Zealand's North Island. It is part of the Hawke's Bay Region. The bottom of the lagoon and its edges are mostly made of rich, dark soil from nearby farms. There is also sand from the nearby Whakakī beach.
Quick facts for kids Whakakī lagoon |
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 Whakakī lagoon
Location in North Island
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| Location | Wairoa district, Hawkes Bay region, North island |
| Coordinates | 39°2′34″S 177°33′7″E / 39.04278°S 177.55194°E |
| Type | Coastal lagoon |
| Etymology | From Te Reo Maori, verb: "fill", "filling" |
| Surface area | ~40.1 km2 (15.5 sq mi) |
Contents
Where is Whakakī Lagoon?
Whakakī Lagoon is found between State Highway 2 and Whakakī Beach. Because of its location, both the lagoon and the beach are popular spots for fishing.
The lagoon usually has a very small or no opening to the ocean. When there is a lot of rain, the water level can get too high. To prevent flooding, people sometimes have to dig a channel to let the extra water flow out to the sea.
Local Legends
The mountains near Whakakī Lagoon have a special story from local folklore. It is said that seven whales were turned into stone and became these mountains. Their names are Hikunui, Iwitea, Korito, Takitaki, Onepoto, Tahutoria, and Tuhara. This happened because they did not return home.
Plants and Animals of Whakakī Lagoon
Plants You Might See
Some plants grow naturally around the lagoon. Others have been brought in by people.
Native and Non-Invasive Plants
These plants are either from New Zealand or do not cause harm to the local environment.
- Gorse (Ulex europaeus)
- Sweet briar (Rosa rubiginosa)
- Boxthorn (Lycium ferocissimum)
- Marram grass (Amophilla arnearia)
- Pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana)
- Lupin (Lupinus arboreus)
- Iceplant (Carpobrotus edulis)
Invasive Plants
These plants are not native to New Zealand. They can spread quickly and harm the local plants and wildlife.
- Blackberry (Rubus fruticous)
- Boneseed (Chrysanthemoides monilifera)
Animals You Might See
Many different animals live in and around Whakakī Lagoon.
Animals in the Water
- Shortfin eel (Anguilla australis)
- Inanga (Galaxias species)
- Goldfish/Carp (Carassius auratus)
- Common bully (Gobiomorphus cotidianus)
Birds and Amphibians
Many types of birds that like water can be found here.
- Goose species (from the Anatidae family)
- Duck species (from the Anatidae family)
- Common shelduck (from the Anatidae family)
Land Animals
- Common rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
