Awanui River
| Awanui River | |
|---|---|
| Country | New Zealand |
| Basin | |
| River mouth | Rangaunu Harbour |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Length | 30 km (19 mi) |
The Awanui River is a river in the far north of New Zealand, close to the point at which the Aupouri Peninsula joins the rest of the Northland Peninsula. The Awanui flows first west and then north, for a total of 30 kilometres (19 mi), before flowing into Rangaunu Harbour. The town of Kaitaia is along its banks. It was extensively dredged for navigation until 1960, with a busy river port at Awanui exporting butter via coastal scows to Auckland, for trans-shipping to the UK. Upstream of Awanui it was dredged, and in places straightened, for flood control. Regular cargo scows included the Coronation, Tiri and Kapuni. Because of their shallow draught these scows were often assisted around the river bends by the work launch Ann, piloted by Harbourmaster Thomas George (Tom) Walker and later by his son Thomas Frederick (Larry) Walker. This family also operated the marine radio station ZLNF Awanui Radio, located at Unahi near the mouth of the river.
See also
Thomas Frederick Walker passed away in 1987 and the Harbour Masters position was taken on by his son, Thomas Christopher Walker
who still holds this position today (2016), The Harbour Masters position has been held by the Walker family for over 100 years.
References
- Land Information New Zealand - Search for Place Names
Coordinates: 35°01′S 173°16′E / 35.017°S 173.267°E