Avon Heathcote Estuary

Estuary of the Heathcote and Avon Rivers / Ihutai
Christchurch with its estuary
Estuary of the Heathcote and Avon Rivers / Ihutai
Coordinates	43°32′49″S 172°43′23″E / 43.547°S 172.723°E / -43.547; 172.723
River sources	Avon River / Ōtākaro Ōpāwaho / Heathcote River
Ocean/sea sources	Pacific Ocean
Basin countries	New Zealand
Surface area	8 km2 (3.1 sq mi)
Settlements	Christchurch

The Estuary of the Heathcote and Avon Rivers / Ihutai is the largest semi-enclosed shallow estuary in Canterbury and remains one of New Zealand's most important coastal wetlands. It is well known as an internationally important habitat for migratory birds, and it is an important recreational playground and educational resource. It was once highly valued for mahinga kai (Māori for food gathering).^[1]