Aratiatia Rapids, Rapids formation at Waikato River in Rotokawa, New Zealand.
The Aratiatia Rapids emerge when the dam releases 80,000 liters of water per second, flowing through a volcanic gorge for one kilometer.
The Aratiatia Power Station started operating in 1964, transforming the natural flow of the Waikato River into controlled water releases.
The name Aratiatia derives from Maori language, referring to the path of explorer Tia who navigated upstream against the rapids current.
Three daily water releases occur at 10am, 12pm, and 2pm, with an additional 4pm release during summer months from October to March.
The rapids served as a filming location for 'The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug', where twenty-five barrels floated downstream during coordinated releases.
GPS coordinates: -38.61750,176.13889
Latest update: March 4, 2025 20:44
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