The Hinatua River then flows in a general northerly direction, passing just to the east of the Saltwater Lagoon before flowing close to the Tasman Sea coastline before joining the Poerua River at its rivermouth.
The Hinatua River's path is described as a general northerly direction, passing close to the Saltwater Lagoon, then flowing towards the Tasman Sea coastline, finally joining the Poerua River at its mouth.