THE RIVERS, 
8 
tiful variety to the splendid scenery which bursts 
upon the view, from the heights of Pukenui or 
Putahi. In this lake are large quantities of 
conger-eels; which are much sought after and 
highly prized by the natives, as a most delicious 
article of food. I am not aware that it produces 
fish of any other description. From this lake 
proceeds the stream called Waitangi; a narrow 
rapid rivulet, running through several deep val- 
leys, till it empties itself, over a beautiful fall of 
about twenty feet perpendicular, into the waters 
of the Bay of Islands. 
With respect to the rivers — I mean the fresh- 
water rivers — there are none, north of the Thames, 
which at all deserve the name. To call them 
rivulets or brooks, would be a sufficient acknow- 
ledgment of their importance ; as they are only 
serviceable for the irrigation of the country, and 
for supplying the inhabitants with that most ne- 
cessary article of life, water. No fresh-water 
stream, that I am acquainted with, where not 
under the influence of the tide, is navigable, 
even for a boat or canoe. The Kerikeri is a fine 
brawling stream ; in places, very beautiful, and 
romantic from its situation : here, cutting its way 
through an extensive plain ; there, rushing through 
deep and umbrageous valleys ; now, passing on 
with a silent, sluggish motion ; and now rushing 
down steep declivities, or among rocks and 
stones, or tumbling its limpid waters over preci- 
pices ninety or a hundred feet in height, and 
