Power Vectors
Dams of the Waikato
Dams of the Waikato
This is an ongoing series to record the natural power resources of the North Island's Waikato River. The river has a series of eight dams and nine hydroelectric power stations that generate electricity for the national grid. These were constructed between 1929 and 1971 to meet growing demand for electricity. http://www.teara.govt.nz/en/interactive/27148/waikato-hydroelectric-power-stations http://www.teara.govt.nz/en/interactive/27148/waikato-hydroelectric-power-stations
The Waikato River is the longest river in New Zealand. Its name Waikato, is a Maori word meaning 'flowing water'. And that it does - situated in the North Island it runs for 425 kms from the eastern slopes of Mount Ruapehu, joins the Tongariro River system and empties into Lake Taupo. Huka Falls is the dramatic result of the Waikato as it drains Taupo at its NE edge, and then flows NW, through the Waikato Plains. Finally, Port Waikato sees the end of its flow as the Waikato River empties into the Tasman Sea.
The Waikato River has spiritual meaning for various local Māori tribes, especially Tainui, who connect with it as a source of their mana, or pride. Turangawaewae (a Waikato marae), is located on the Waikato River banks at Ngaruawahia.
The Waikato River is the longest river in New Zealand. Its name Waikato, is a Maori word meaning 'flowing water'. And that it does - situated in the North Island it runs for 425 kms from the eastern slopes of Mount Ruapehu, joins the Tongariro River system and empties into Lake Taupo. Huka Falls is the dramatic result of the Waikato as it drains Taupo at its NE edge, and then flows NW, through the Waikato Plains. Finally, Port Waikato sees the end of its flow as the Waikato River empties into the Tasman Sea.
The Waikato River has spiritual meaning for various local Māori tribes, especially Tainui, who connect with it as a source of their mana, or pride. Turangawaewae (a Waikato marae), is located on the Waikato River banks at Ngaruawahia.
