Lake Rotorangi facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake Rotorangi |
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Lake Rotorangi
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 Lake Rotorangi
Location in Taranaki Region
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| Location | Taranaki, North Island |
| Coordinates | 39°30′06″S 174°30′33″E / 39.5018°S 174.5091°E |
| Type | Reservoir |
| Primary inflows | Patea River |
| Primary outflows | Patea River |
| Basin countries | New Zealand |
Lake Rotorangi is the biggest lake in the Taranaki region of New Zealand. It's actually a special type of lake called a reservoir. It was made in 1984 when engineers built a big dam across the Patea River.
How Lake Rotorangi Was Created
Lake Rotorangi was made in 1984. Its main job is to help make electricity. To create the lake, workers built a huge dam. This dam is like a giant earth wall, about 80 metres tall! It's located near Ball Road in South Taranaki District.
When the dam was finished, it blocked the Patea River. The river water then filled up the valley. This created a very long lake, stretching about 46 kilometres! This makes it the longest reservoir of its kind in New Zealand.
Generating Power and Fun at the Lake
The Patea Dam is owned by a company called Trust Power. It can produce 31 megawatts of electricity. That's enough power for many homes! The station works like a "peaking station." This means it makes electricity when prices are highest. It can store about one week's worth of water.
Lake Rotorangi is not just for power. It's also a public camping ground. Many people visit in the summer. They enjoy different water sports there. It's a great place for outdoor fun!
