It is the first hydroelectric power station on the Waikato River, and is located 13 kilometres (8.1 mi) downstream of Lake Taupō.

The New Zealand Ministry for Culture and Heritage gives a translation of "pegged ladder" for Aratiatia.

[3] Before construction of the dam and hydro station, the Aratiatia Rapids were a prominent feature on the Waikato River; a scenic reserve from 1906.

However, several times a day, the Aratiatia dam gates of the Waikato River are opened, which restores the rapids to their normal operation.

There are several public lookout points on the high rock bluffs that dominate this turbulent stretch of Aratiatia Rapids.