The Maria River is a tidal estuary system located on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, flowing into the Hastings River near Port Macquarie. It's a classic coastal river characterized by extensive mangrove-lined banks, sandy flats, and deeper channels, transitioning from brackish tidal waters in its lower reaches to freshwater further upstream. The river flows through both Maria and Kumbatine National Parks, offering a mix of accessible fishing locations and remote wilderness sections.