Aratiatia Rapids

IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNING Swimming is not permitted at the Aratiatia Rapids. It is extremely dangerous, sadly death and injuries have occurred in the past. The dam can potentially open at anytime. Before every opening of the dam warning sirens can be heard.

The tiers of the rapids and steep walls of the gorge are remnants of an ancient volcano. It is said the the name "Aratiatia" comes from the meaning "stairway of Tia". Tia was a leader from the waka Te Arawa, and passed through the gorge with a small party on route to discovering Lake Taupō.

Stay out of the Aratiatia Rapids spillway and downstream area at ALL times. Never enter, swim or kayak in this area. Pay attention to signs, safety warnings and sirens. These safety warnings are in place to keep us all safe.

The name Taupō is from the Māori language and is a shortened version of Taupō-nui-a-Tia. The longer name was first given to the cliff at Pākā Bay, on the eastern shore of the lake, and means the "great cloak of Tia". It was named for Tia, the Māori explorer who discovered the lake.