The Waimea River is located in the north of the South Island of New Zealand. It is formed from the confluence of the Wairoa River and the Wai-iti River, which meet near Brightwater. The combined waters flow into Tasman Bay near Appleby, opposite Rabbit Island. Coordinates: 41°19′39″S 173°07′32″E / 41.3276°S 173.1256°E