Story: Natural environment

River in flood, Glenorchy, Otago, 1993 (2nd of 2)

River in flood, Glenorchy, Otago, 1993

Flooding is the most common natural hazard and can occur at any time of the year. Many weather systems sweep in from the ocean to the uplands of the country. This process can result in very high rainfall over short periods of time. Because townships are often built on flat land (usually a river flood plain), many New Zealanders face the risk of flooding. But flooding also forms new soils, providing much of the agricultural wealth of those who live on the plains.

Using this item

Department of Conservation
Reference: 10047603
Photograph by Neville Peat

This item has been provided for private study purposes (such as school projects, family and local history research) and any published reproduction (print or electronic) may infringe copyright law. It is the responsibility of the user of any material to obtain clearance from the copyright holder.

All images & media in this story

How to cite this page:

Carl Walrond, 'Natural environment - Climate', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/2670/river-in-flood-glenorchy-otago-1993 (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by Carl Walrond