Whau River

The Whau River is a brook in Blockhouse Bay, Auckland, that flows for several kilometers from Avondale to its mouth between two peninsulas. The waterway is lined with banks that support mangrove growth and diverse plant life.

Starting in 1841, the riverbanks supported logging operations in the region. Shortly afterward, in 1852, the first brick factory in West Auckland was established on the Rosebank Peninsula.

The river carries the name Te Whau in the Maori language and holds meaning for local iwi communities as part of their connection to the land. Today, people visit its banks to experience the natural environment and learn about the area's indigenous heritage.

Visitors can explore the river from various access points around the surrounding neighborhoods. The banks are reachable via several paths that offer natural stopping places to observe local wildlife.

The river drains a catchment containing marine and riverine sediments that have accumulated over time. These deposits create a unique environment where both fresh water and tidal influences meet.

GPS coordinates: -36.89936,174.68406

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:11