Poerua River (Westland District)

The Poerua River is a river located in the Westland District of the West Coast region of New Zealand's South Island. It is a relatively short, swift-flowing river draining a portion of the Southern Alps. The river is primarily fed by rainfall and snowmelt from the surrounding mountainous terrain.

Its source is located in the high country inland from the coastal plains of Westland. The river flows generally westward, passing through heavily forested areas, before emptying into the Tasman Sea. The surrounding area is characterized by dense native rainforest, typical of the West Coast region.

The Poerua River is known for its pristine waters and is used for recreational activities such as fishing and kayaking. It also forms an important part of the local ecosystem, providing habitat for a variety of native flora and fauna. Access to the river can be challenging due to the rugged terrain and dense vegetation. The river is subject to significant fluctuations in flow depending on rainfall patterns and seasonal snowmelt.