Waikato River is the longest river in New Zealand. It originates on Mount Ruapehu, in the central North Island, and flows north for 264 miles (425 kilometers). The Waikato River passes through Lake Taupo, the city of Hamilton, and the Waikato region, emptying into the Tasman Sea at Port Waikato. The river is dammed for hydroelectric power generation at Ohakuri, Atiamuri, Whakamaru, Maraetai, Waipapa, Aratiatia, Karapiro, and Arapuni. The dams form lakes that are popular for boating and fishing.
