Visitors have said....
Sam Fowler
19:45 01 Jan 18
Great place to visit to see the floodgates opening. Beautiful spot with stunning scenery.
R dT
22:04 27 Dec 17
Be at the dam at the right time to see the sluice gates opened. Lovely walk to the gorge. Great walk for all ages. Public restrooms will be a great and welcome addition.
At the Aratiatia Rapids, the Waikato River falls 28 metres in the space of one kilometre. The surging rapids have been harnessed to produce environmentally sustainable hydroelectric power.
To view the Aratiatia Rapids gradually filling up, make sure you arrive a few minutes before the dam is due to release. There are three lookout points on the high rock bluffs that overlook the river.
Aratiatia Rapids is not a safe place to swim. The dam can release water at any time and without warning.
Summer release hours - 10:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, 4:00pm
Winter release hours - 10:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm
Peter Sommerville
18:43 17 Nov 17
We were able to see the release of the water twice. Once before our Huka Falls cruise and again after. Was great to see so much power as the river filled and flowed down steam
Shane Williamson
05:40 28 Aug 17
Timing is everything when watching the water release. so get there at least 20 min early to get a good spot. Best location is the 1st lookout or on the bridge.