Submitted by Alexandra Diamond on the 2020 winter session program in New Zealand sponsored by the Department of Animal and Food Sciences…
Located in Canterbury, the Rakia River is home to some of the most amazing views in New Zealand. When visiting Hamish Marrs family run farm, I was able to get an idea of how large the river actually was. On the edge of a beet farm overlooking the river, my peers and I were lucky enough to have a lecture overlooking the carved mountains and breathtaking scenery. Although the scorching heat made it somewhat hard to focus, I could never have imagined a prettier classroom.
The gorge was formed when the river carved out its path. When first glancing at the river, you immediately notice the bright blue coloring. This complexion is caused by rock flour, which is finely powdered rock formed by glacial erosion. The crushed rock is so light in weight that it stays floating in the water for an extended amount of time. The sun then reflects off the water to give it its final turquoise appearance. Before getting off the bus to see the gorge, we were warned to be extra careful. While taking in the view and snapping a few photos, multiple cars went by. Anytime a car went over the one lane bridge, it would start to shake up and down, causing an uneasy feeling.
However, I noticed while gazing at the gorge that jet boats are allowed in the water. I figured since New Zealand was so harsh on sustainability that they wouldn’t want to take a chance with water pollution. But, many of the boats launched into the river are used for fishing purposes. In order to go on fishing endeavors, the boat operators must have valid sport fishing licenses. Many times, it is too dangerous to take the boat out due to the strong current and swells that accumulate during storms. The pictures do not do this beautiful place justice, and growing up in New York, I could have never imagined seeing something so beautiful.