Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Finland
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
Bermuda
Canada
the United States
Mexico
the Dominican Republic
South Africa
Egypt
Australia
Fiji
Papua New Guinea
Natural formation · Taupō, Waikato
Aratiatia Rapids
Gorge of the Waikato River near Taupō, normally almost dry, which fills with rapids when a dam’s gates are opened, several times a day.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Aratiatia Rapids
The Aratiatia rapids are on the Waikato River, about 15 km from Taupō, downstream from the Huka Falls. A hydroelectric dam, built in the 1960s, diverts the river water through turbines, and the rocky gorge that once had rapids is left nearly dry most of the time.
Several times a day, at published times, the power company opens the gates. A siren signals the opening, and within minutes the gorge fills: water covers the rocks and forms strong rapids for about 15 minutes, until the gates close again.
Three viewpoints flank the gorge: one next to the dam, another by the road, and one lower down reached by a short forest walk. The site was used as the setting for the barrel escape in one of The Hobbit films.
There is no entry fee to view the rapids. Check the gate opening times before you go.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 45 minutes, arriving a little before the gates open.
Best time
At the gate opening times, which vary between summer and winter; confirm before you go. Arrive 15 minutes early to choose a viewpoint.
How to get there
By car, about 15 minutes from Taupō town center via SH5 and Aratiatia Road, with parking next to the dam. By bike or on foot, via the riverside trail from the Huka Falls.
Tip
Watch the first part of the release from the dam viewpoint and walk quickly to the lower viewpoint to see the rapids in full. Combine it with the Huka Falls on the same outing.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Aratiatia Rapids
When do the Aratiatia gates open?
Several times a day, at scheduled times that vary between summer and winter. Check before you go.
How long does the Aratiatia gate opening last?
The rapids are filled for about 15 minutes.
Do you have to pay to see the Aratiatia rapids?
No. The viewing platforms and parking are free.