This essay is about a river located in the central North Island.... the
Waikato River. The Waikato River is the longest and probably one of the
most utilised river in New Zealand. It is 450 Kilometres long and runs
from Mount Ruapehu to Port Waikato.
The Journey: The Waikato River starts at the deep clear depths of Lake
Taupo. Crystal clear and sparkling in the sunlight. It roars down the rough
turbulent drop of Huka Falls it foams and splashes swiftly out of the rapid
into calmer waters. Flowing into Lake Karapiro, home of the first
hydroelectric power station in the world. Through the dam and out again.
Passing towns and cities, bordered with willows, punga, and Kawhai. Edged
with steep, crumbling cliffs and banks.The stiff breeze ripples the now
murky, dull water. Rolling over the muddy river bed. It passes through the
city of Hamilton, lined with busy streets, the dull drone of cars, and the
smell of exhaust. Surrounded by tall grasses and over hanging trees. Under
lots of bridges, and past river walks. Night falls. The pitch black
water reflects the twinkling lights of the city.In the morning, the river
sends up a thick grey mist that covers the city.The river passes Mt
Taupiri. It turns grey to match the over cast sky. The River speeds up,
drawing nearer to its final destination. It gets faster and faster and
finally reaches the Tasman sea at Port Waikato.
The uses: The Waikato River has a wide range of uses, either recreational
or industrial. From a family on a hot summers day, going for a relaxing
boat trip, to the adrenalen pumping waterskiing competitions. Or if it's
the High Schools rowing team having a tiresome rowing practice, the Waikato
River is a surley taken for granted landmark, considering how much it helps
with our every day life. The sewarage in the Waikato River has been through
many stages before it is released. First its broken down and the solids
from that are all used for power to be sent through the power stations and
used as our houses power. The rest is then been treated with clorine to
kill any virusesand then is also treated with solfore dioxide which breaks
down the clorine. Along side the river there are eight power stations. The
Waikato River plays a huge role through out the Waikato and surrounding
districts.
Pollution: Humankind waste
desposed of in the river
the curling channnel
a rubbish dump for those who inhabit its banks
inadicate industry corroding its image
endeavours try to restore its appearance
have been attepted and succeded
but the problem still remains
sleeping within
lurking beneath
the murky void
we call the Waikato River
Our visit to the Waikato River: Our trip to the Waikato River really showed
us how much we appreciate it. its not only used for electricity and
sewerage company's , its also used for our pleasure. The Waikato River is
used for recreation and is also the home of our famous river boat the Waipa
Delta. On cloudy day its is even more secret but when the sun returns
it becomes its merry self again. The river not only takes notice of our
needs but also notices the needs of our cultural balance. The whirl pools
that spin around its surface make koru patterns. A sacred symbol belonging
to the Moaris.Many people enjoy the soothing smooth parts of the secretive
rough parts. Well I suppose we all have our own interpretations. Although
the river isn't crystal clear its a tempting look on a hot summers day. But
that thought is shortly taken away by its dangerous current. Our river the
Waikato River has been with us for many years and will stay with us for
centuries to come. Infinate wrinkles on an old being that will never
retire.
From: Nicholas, Josh, Jared, Laura, Carla, Brian, and Sophie on behalf of
Room 8
