Finn's Waikato: A Young Conservationist's Love for His River
Meet Finn Priest-Jacobs, an energetic 8-year-old from Taupō, New Zealand, with a growing passion for the natural world – a passion undoubtedly nurtured by his mother, Ceana, the driving force behind “Outdoor Kid.” Growing up amidst the stunning landscapes of the North Island, Finn has been immersed in a world of natural wonders from a young age. Ceana, having experienced the transformative power of nature herself, established Outdoor Kid to share this magic with other families, creating resources that encourage children to swap screen time for green time. For Finn, exploring the Waikato River isn’t just a pastime; it’s a way of life, fostered by his mother’s dedication to making the outdoors accessible and engaging for young adventurers. His recent contribution to River Mixer, “collecting” the Waikato River, showcases the early connection with nature that Outdoor Kid champions.

Adventures at Hipapatua: Finn's Exploration of the Waikato
For his contribution to River Mixer, Finn, guided by his innate curiosity and the spirit of exploration encouraged by Outdoor Kid, focused on the magnificent Waikato River. His explorations often lead him to places like the Hipapatua Recreational Reserve, a familiar and cherished spot. Situated just a short distance downstream from where the Waikato River flows out of the crystal-clear waters of Lake Taupō, and conveniently close to Taupō township, Hipapatua offers a fantastic vantage point to appreciate the river’s beauty. It’s also near the intriguing geology of Huka Falls, where the powerful Waikato River is dramatically squeezed through a narrow chasm. Picture young Finn, an enthusiastic explorer, wandering the riverbanks here, observing the flow of the water, and perhaps even clambering over the rocks, his innate curiosity about the natural world in full swing.
The River's Story: From Ancient Lakes to Volcanic Influence
The Waikato River’s journey is a fascinating one, shaped by both time and dramatic geological events. Geological records indicate that near Huka Falls, the river flows over ancient sediments – remnants of a large lake that existed thousands of years ago. The very landscape Finn explores has been molded by volcanic activity, with massive eruptions from the Taupō supervolcano significantly impacting the river’s course and flow. A significant event around 1800 years ago saw the sudden drainage of Lake Taupō, causing a catastrophic flood along the Waikato, a powerful reminder of the dynamic forces at play in this region. This rich geological history near Huka Falls provides a compelling backdrop to Finn’s appreciation of the river – it’s not just water flowing by, but a waterway with a deep and dramatic past.

Te Awa o Waikato: A Source of Life and Mana
Beyond its geological significance, the Waikato River holds profound cultural and spiritual importance for the Māori people, the indigenous people of New Zealand. Known as “Te Awa o Waikato,” the river is not merely a geographical feature but a living entity deeply connected to the identity and well-being of Māori. For generations, the Waikato has been a vital source of sustenance, providing food and water for communities. Central to this understanding is the concept of “mana,” a spiritual power, prestige, and inherent energy that flows through all aspects of the natural world. For Māori, the Waikato River is imbued with this mana, and for many iwi (tribes) in the region, it is considered a tupuna (ancestor), fostering a deep sense of respect and responsibility. Growing up in this culturally rich landscape, Finn is undoubtedly developing an understanding of this deeper connection to the river, adding another dimension to his budding conservationist awareness.
Following in the Footsteps of Young Conservationists
Finn’s early interest in the natural world echoes the beginnings of many well-known conservationists throughout history, individuals who recognized the importance of protecting our planet from a young age:
- John Muir: As a young man, John Muir’s deep appreciation for the wilderness, sparked by his experiences in nature, laid the foundation for his later advocacy for the preservation of forests and national parks.
- Robert Baden-Powell: Even in his youth, Robert Baden-Powell displayed a keen interest in the outdoors and nature, which later significantly influenced the development of the Scout Movement and its emphasis on environmental awareness.
- Rachel Carson: From a young age, Rachel Carson exhibited a profound love for nature and a talent for writing about it, which eventually led to her groundbreaking work on the impact of pesticides on the environment.
- Wangari Maathai: Growing up in rural Kenya, Wangari Maathai witnessed firsthand the environmental degradation of her homeland, inspiring her early commitment to reforestation and community empowerment.
These individuals, like Finn, demonstrate that a passion for conservation can take root early in life and blossom into impactful action.

A Family's Dedication to Outdoor Exploration
Finn’s journey is intrinsically linked to his mother’s vision with Outdoor Kid. Ceana’s personal commitment to sharing the wonders of nature with Finn, and her dedication to creating opportunities for other families to experience the outdoors, has cultivated a rich environment for Finn’s own appreciation of the environment to flourish. Their shared adventures, the very foundation of Outdoor Kid, encourage countless other children to step away from screens and discover the magic of the natural world around them. Finn’s contribution to River Mixer is a wonderful example of how this early engagement can lead to a desire to learn about and share information about the natural treasures they encounter.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Guardians
Finn Priest-Jacobs’ exploration of the Waikato River, fueled by his own curiosity and the guiding influence of his family and Outdoor Kid, is an inspiring reminder that a love for nature and a commitment to conservation can begin at any age. His contribution to River Mixer goes beyond simply documenting a river; the very act of “collecting” the Waikato – perhaps not just its stories and images, but even a sample of its water – becomes a powerful act of conservation through education. This collected essence of the Waikato can travel the world, offering a tangible connection for others who may never stand on its banks. By learning about the Waikato through Finn’s young eyes and perhaps even the river’s own water, curiosity about local waterways can be sparked in hearts far away. This newfound interest can blossom into a desire to explore, understand, and ultimately preserve the rivers in their own communities, creating a ripple effect of conservation inspired by one young boy’s connection to his home river. Let Finn’s adventure inspire us all to encourage the young explorers in our lives to step outside, connect with nature, and discover the wonders that await them – for in their hands, and in the stories they share, lies the future of our planet.
Keep them clean!
Just as eight-year-old Finn is learning the importance of the Waikato River, let’s all remember that every river, big or small, near our own homes is a vital thread in the tapestry of our planet. By taking simple actions to keep our local waterways clean and healthy, we can each become stewards of nature, ensuring these precious resources can be enjoyed and cherished by generations to come, just like Finn’s connection to his special river.
F.A.Q.
It holds the title of being the longest river in the country.
It originates from the pristine waters of Lake Taupō
It exhibits evidence of ancient lakebeds and has been significantly shaped by the volcanic activity of the Taupō Volcanic Zone.
The Māori refer to the river as “Te Awa o Waikato,” and it is considered a “taonga,” meaning a highly treasured possession of immense cultural, spiritual, and historical value.
The Waikato River is a vital natural resource with multifaceted importance, encompassing geological history, ecological value, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities, all underscoring the need for its conservation.
Additional resources
- Tupuna Awa: People and Politics of the Waikato River: Muru-Lanning, Marama: 9781869408503: Books – Amazon.ca
- WAIKATO THE WONDERER – The Story of the Waikato River
- The New Zealand Wars – The Invasion Of Waikato S01E03
- New Zealand’s Magnificent River Waikato | Wild River Journey
- Waikato River Archives | New Zealand Geographic