The Aohanga River, previously known as the Owahanga River, is a river in the Tararua District, in the Manawatū-Whanganui Region of New Zealand's North Island. Its tortuous course winds generally southeast through rough hill country, reaching the sea southwest of Cape Turnagain.
Geography
The river flows southeast from near the Waihoki Valley into the Pacific Ocean. The Pongaroa River is a major tributary of the river. The village of Aohanga is found on the right bank of the river mouth.
History
The river has cultural significance for Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa. The name refers to a legendary taniwha found under a rock at the mouth of the river, a cautionary tale indicating the dangerous currents found at the river mouth. Previously known as the Owahanga River, the river was given the official name Aohanga River in 2023 due to the Ngati Kahungunu ki Wairarapa Tamaki nui-a-Rua Claims Settlement Act 2022, which recognised the mispelling of the river's name.
The river is part of Owāhanga Station, a farm that has been in Māori ownership since its establishment. Leased to European farmers R.D Rodgers and M. Greenwood, after their lease expired in 1930, the farm became managed directly by members of the Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa hapū Te Hika o Papauma.
The river and surrounding farmlands were damaged in 2023 due to the effects of Cyclone Gabrielle.
See also List of rivers of New Zealand
References