Remarkable rivers

Canterbury’s surface water system is remarkable as almost half of all surface water supplied from rain, snow-melt and springs is carried within only two huge braided rivers, the Waitaki and the Rakaia. On average, close to 600 tonnes of water flow down these two rivers every second. If we add the five next largest systems – the Waimakariri, Waiau, Rangitata, Hurunui and Clarence – 90% of surface water run-off is flowing down just seven rivers. All of these are alpine rivers have their headwaters in the Southern Alps.

A significant amount of water also percolates down into the underground aquifers, recharging the groundwater system and maintaining flows in our lowland streams.

Canterbury’s rivers are of key cultural significance to Maori, as a symbol of permanence and as a source of spiritual meaning to tangata whenua. They provide an important resource for land-owners, recreational users and for local communities.

Canterbury River Facts