Before
After
How do I find it?
Just put “Aratiatai Dam” into google maps and it will take you to the dam location, drive to the dam and you will find carpark there. The pathway to the viewing of the dam release is across the road and about a 5 min walk in the bush, and a second viewing platform is a 10 min walk from there. In my opinion the first platform has the best view.
Is it safe?
Yes very safe for children and dogs as it has structures in place and is very secure.
Are you allowed drones?
No
What times does the dam release the water?
Summer (October to March) release hours 10.00am, 12.00pm, 2.00pm, 4.00pm
Winter (April to Sept) release hours 10.00am, 12.00pm, 2.00pm
How many sirens do we hear before the water is released?
Four
Was it worth the visit?
Yes definitely worth seeing, it was exciting waiting for the water to be released from the dam. After all the water had been released, it was such a change we thought we were standing in a different place. The waterfall was so big and powerful at the end and at the start was barely anything there.