We arrived for the 12 noon release, took the essential before pictures and awaited for the sluice gates to open. They eventually did but not before a Hi vis jacketed man had issued warning re a helicopter. The water takes a full 5 mins to fill the gorge to its natural awesome sight at which point you get to take...
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Aratiatia Rapids, Taupo
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All 43 Taupo Attractions »
Ranked #4 of 19 attractions in Taupo
33 Reviews
Type: Landmarks/ Points of Interest
12 visitor photos
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Hexham, United Kingdom
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Singapore
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Amazing to see the change from a trickle to a mighty roar when the dams are opened. But check the timing before you go. Not sure if it's worth it during any other time.
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Manchester, England, United Kingdom
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Go and see a little stream turned into raging white water within a few mins... Only happens three times a day at 10, 12 and 2pm
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Auckland, New Zealand
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It was interesting to see the dam released and the intensity and levels of the water increasing to such incredibly powerful levels.
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Hastings, New Zealand
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Good for a stop during your travels. Worth taking a walk around to viewing platforms as the estimates given for track walking times are very generous and dont take long to get to.
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Off the road between Taupo and Rotorua is this hidden gem of an attraction.
Visitors of all ages are captivated by the experience of the dam being released. The car parking is ample and close to the dam and bridge so those who are not so steady on their feet don't have far to go to see and enjoy. Those...
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Johannesburg, South Africa
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We stopped here on the way to Rotorua just as the water was due to be released. We walked up to the higher vantage point which was quite a climb and waited for the flow of water to appear. It was an amazing sight to see the river swelling so quickly with such a huge volume of water. We thought...
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San Diego, California
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A little way out of town but worth a visit for the spectacular water release from the dam, filling the gorge with a violent maelstrom for fifteen minutes every two hours. Ample parking and trails to several view points a 10 to 15 minute walk away. Allow time to reach viewpoint, although release can also be viewed from atop bridge...
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Wrexham, United Kingdom
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In Maori it means 'The steps of Tia' who was a revered chief of the Arawa tribe. It's free to see and generally unlike Huka falls there isn't a tour bus in sight.
Arrive a few minutes early and see the spill way open then a brisk walk to either the upper or lower lookout gives a great view of...
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Calgary, Canada
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The power of Mother Nature. This one really brings it home. Both viewpoints (15 and 20 minute hikes) have merit - get there early for a spot along the fence.
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