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"The
river runs deep, the river runs slow, living in the land
of the mighty Waikato!" |
The
serpentine beauty of the Waikato river is maximised
at every opportunity with adjacent parks, gardens and
river
walks. The Waikato is the longest river in Aotearoa
New Zealand. The ebb and flow for 425km through the
Waikato
Region has a gentle gradient that carries a heavy load
of ash from the volcanic highlands. Eight power stations
built on the river between Taupo and Karapiro are a
major source of hydroelectric power. It's strength
and power
grows every metre as it churns through the turbines
of eight dams, and in doing so, lighting much of the
North
Island. 140,000 people drink from the Mighty Waikato!
The
Waikato River has spiritual meaning for the local Tainui
Maori tribe who regard it as a source of their
mana (or pride). |
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The
New Zealand National Marae of Turangawaewae is located
close to it's banks at Ngaruawahia. The name Waikato
given by Maori translates to flowing water. Whether
you are Sports crazy, Racing car savvy, Crafter extraordinaire,
Farmer of the year! There's something in the wonderful
Waikato for everybody!!
Located
in central North lsland, the grass is truly green in
every way and fascinating activities abound. Try an
adrenalin adventure or take one of the many magnificent
bush walks in the region. The soulful seaside surfing
town of Raglan with it famous left-hand surf break
at Manu bay, music festivals and quirky craft shops
is a must visit; and the quaint rural towns of Cambridge
and Tirau burst with stores selling collectable's. |
Visit
the Waitomo Caves formed more than 30 million years
ago. Lit by the blue lights of the glow worms and while
there, experience cave rafting and cave abseiling.
For
something not so adventurous, meander through 58 hectares
of Hamilton Gardens.
The
New Zealand National Field Days are visited by
over 40,000 visitors each June. Lake Karapiro is the
home
of the World rowing championships. Cambridge is
home to World thoroughbred breeding champions and Hamilton
aspires
to host the V8 Supercars. In
addition to many museums, the region contains important
landmarks associated with Maori culture and history,
seeped in Tainui Iwi tikanga and is home of the
Te Kingi Tuheitia (The Maori King). |
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Copyright ©2006
Forbes Group Limited. All rights reserved.
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