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World Rivers Day - an opportunity to explore NZ's remarkable rivers

Posted under: Media release

Published 26 September 2014

New Zealanders are being encouraged to get into the outdoors and explore the country's waterways for World Rivers Day on Sunday 28 September.

New Zealand Walking Access Commission Chief Executive Mark Neeson says New Zealanders love to get out and about in the great outdoors, whether for hunting, tramping, fishing, or a picnic by the river.

“World Rivers Day is a great opportunity for people to make use of the Commission's Walking Access Mapping System (WAMS) to find the best riverside spots to explore in their area.”

The free national mapping system allows users to find publicly accessible land in the outdoors by overlaying access information on nationwide topographical and aerial maps. WAMS can be accessed on desktop computers, smartphones and other mobile devices at www.wams.org.nz or through the Commission's website.

Mr Neeson says New Zealand's rivers are used for many recreational activities, such as rafting, canoeing, kayaking and jet-boating, and these activities are a major attraction for overseas tourists.

“Kiwis also enjoy many activities in and around our rivers. The most recent Sport NZ Active New Zealand Survey found that 6.4 per cent of New Zealand adults participated in kayaking or canoeing, and 5.7 per cent in freshwater fishing over a 12 month period.

Mr Neeson says New Zealanders are lucky to have access to such unique outdoor environments and a rich recreational heritage.

“New Zealand's outdoors contributes hugely to our wellbeing and quality of life, while enhancing our awareness of the natural environment. World Rivers Day is an opportunity to get out there and enjoy the wonderful rivers in our backyard.”