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Lake Emma / Kirihonuhonu

Depth: 2.3 metres

Area: 166.8 hectares

Altitude: 640 metres

Lake ID: 41299

Main vegetation type:
Low Productivity Grassland

Ashburton

Canterbury
43° 38' 19" S
171° 6' 23" E
Highland

Iwi / representative groups:

  • Ngāi Tahu
    • Te Rūnanga o Arowhenua

Description

Kirihonuhonu (Lake Emma) lies between the upper reaches of the South Asburton and Rangitata rivers’, and has a maximum depth of 3 m. In summer months, the lake has been susceptible to high nutrient levels and algal biomass concentrations.  However, nutrient levels and algal productivity have fallen in recent years. The lake is popular for water activities and fishing (source lawa.co.nz).

Kirihonuhonu is part of the rich high-country mahinga kai area of Ōtūwharekai (the Ashburton Lakes).  The lake is kāinga mahinga kai (food-gathering place) for Ngāi Tahu where tuna (eels), aruhe (bracken fernroot), and weka were gathered (https://www.kahurumanu.co.nz/atlas).

41299

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About

  • The Project
  • The Science
    • Field Sampling
    • Laboratory Analysis
    • Student Projects
  • Science Aims
  • Rohe Studies
    • Rangitīkei Iwi Rohe Study
    • Wairarapa Moana iwi rohe study
  • Virtual Experience
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  • Iwi Relationships
  • The Team
    • Advisory Groups
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Resources

  • Contact & Links
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  • Glossary