Waikato region
The 25,000km2 Waikato region is the fourth largest in New Zealand. It is home to New Zealand’s longest river, the Waikato, and Lake Taupo, its largest lake. It has 70% of New Zealand's geothermal resources, and 1200km of diverse coastline.
The catchment type surrounding Waikato estuaries is a mix of pastoral, exotic forestry, natural and urban (low in the Waikato Region 0 - 5%). Four estuaries are currently monitored, varying in size from medium to very large. Intertidal sediment-dwelling organisms (macrofauna - including shellfish and marine worms) and sediment characteristics are used to monitor estuary health. Overall the Waikato estuary sites are in good health.
