Things to Do in Taupo New Zealand
Taupo is a popular destination for visitors, thanks to its clean, crisp air and relaxed lifestyle. Lake Taupo is the largest freshwater lake in Australasia, formed over 5,000 years ago by a massive volcanic eruption. Trout fishing is a popular activity in the area, and there are over 80km of purpose-built mountain biking tracks for cycling enthusiasts. The region is home to Tongariro National Park, one of the only Dual World Heritage Parks in the world, known for its snow-capped mountains and steaming thermal areas.
Experience Taupō Region
- Events capital of New Zealand
- Fantastic trout fishing
- Awesome ski fields
- Great hiking and biking
- Ultimate outdoor adventures
You´ll
these great things to see & do…
- Catch a trout and eat it al fresco
- Take the one-day trek (17 kilometres) at Mount Taranaki
- Ski the snow-powdered slopes of Mt Ruapehu
- Be there for Ironman – a great event
- Soak in a thermal hot pool.
- Scream as you leap from a plane or bungy platform
- Take a wild jetboat ride to the base of Huka Falls
- Take the floatplane to Orakei Korako thermal area
Top 5 Walks
- Spa Thermal Park to Huka Falls (2hrs return)
- Huka Falls to Aratiatia Rapids (4hrs return)
- Great Lake Walkway (time varies)
- Rangatira Point Walking Track (1.5hrs return)
- Kinloch to Kawakawa (4hrs return)
Approximate driving times to Taupo
- From Auckland -4 hours
- From Wellington – 5 hours 20 minutes
- From Rotorua -1 hour
- From Napier-2 hours
Useful Lake Taupō Resources
The Taupo region in New Zealand is known for its wild trout fishing and swimming opportunities. It is considered the crown jewel of New Zealand, offering visitors the chance to ski on a volcano or relax in the native bush. Tourists flock to the region for its many geothermal pools, perfect for indulging and relaxing.
For thrill-seekers, jet boating on the raging river is a must-do activity, especially for those spending time with family or friends. The locals are known for their hospitality, adding to the grandeur of the surrounding landscape and overall experience.
The Taupo region boasts a rugged terrain, rich in history and art. It is easily accessible and a real haven for tourists seeking a true break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Taupo is home to the largest commercial tandem skydiving drop zone in the world. The region offers plenty of skydiving operations, cafes, fine-dining restaurants, and great sightseeing options. Tourists can enjoy picturesque and dramatic views of the mountains and the beautiful freshwater lake.
The vibrant culture and natural beauty offer a range of sights and activities that cater to various tastes and preferences. There are many accommodation options, from star-rated to budget-friendly, to suit all budgets. Travel agents put together great package deals that allow visitors to explore this fabulous destination.
There are plenty of online and offline resources that offer great holiday ideas in Taupo. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, Taupo has something for everyone.
All North Island Regions
Auckland Bay of Plenty Coromandel Peninsula Gisborne & Eastland Hawke’s Bay Northland & Bay of Islands Rotorua Ruapehu Taranaki Taupo Waikato & Waitomo Wellington & Wairarapa Whanganui & ManawatuFind Your Perfect Activity
Taste of Taupo Floatplane
Taupo Food & Wine Scenic Flights
10 minutes
Price:Included in your tour package
Taupo Floatplane: Get on board a high-wing Cessna 206 seaplane for a scenic flight you won’t forget – taking off and landing from the water. A short but sweet ten minute flight gives you a taste of the experience with a bird’s eye view of Taupo’s local geothermal area and Huka Falls. Or, upgrade to
Lake Taupo Scenic Cruise
Taupo Nature Active & Adventure
90 minutes
Price:Included in your tour package
Embark on a relaxing and picturesque journey with the Lake Taupo Scenic Cruise, a must-do experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Explore the stunning beauty of New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake while enjoying breathtaking views, fascinating cultural landmarks, and serene tranquility. Tour Overview Location: Lake Taupo, Central North Island Duration: 1.5 to 2
Huka Prawn Park
Taupo Walking & Hiking
2 hours
Price:Included in your tour package
Huka Prawn Park TAUPO, RUAPEHU & TONGARIRO Just ten minutes from central Taupo and set among stunning park-like grounds, you’ll find the world’s only geothermally-heated prawn breeding park, an ultimate prawn-themed adventure, and Taupo’s only riverside restaurant. Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the hatchery and hand-feed the baby prawns. Venture through the activities park and
Huka Honey Hive
65 Karetoto Road, Waikato 3351, New Zealand Family & Kids
Flexible
Price:Included in your tour package
Huka Honey Hive TAUPO, RUAPEHU & TONGARIRO Honey experience that offers free honey, mead and liqueur tastings, live beehive viewings and fascinating interactive displays.
Huka Falls River Cruise
Aratiatia Dam Boat Cruises & Water Activities
1 hour 20 minutes
Price:Included In Your Tour Package
Huka Falls River Cruise TAUPO, RUAPEHU & TONGARIRO Operating beside the exciting Aratiatia Dam and Rapids 12 minutes from Taupo’s town centre. Experience awesome views of the mighty Huka Falls on a riverboat cruise with comfortable inside seating, large rear deck and front viewing platform. A real New Zealand experience with crystal-clear water, birdlife and
Huka Prawn Park Taupo
Karetoto Road, Taupo Family & Kids Food & Wine
2 hours
Price:Included In Your Tour Package
On the banks of the beautiful Waikato River, just minutes from Taupo towncentre, you’ll find the iconic and unique family playground of Huka Prawn Park. With acres of land dedicated to the production of New Zealand freshwater prawns, and pure family fun, Huka Prawn Park offers a day of fun and excitement for all ages.
Tongariro Crossing Guided Walk
53 Carroll Street, National Park Village Walking & Hiking
Flexible
Price:Included In Your Tour Package
Conquering the Peaks: The Ultimate Tongariro Crossing Guided Walk If you are looking for the most iconic trek in New Zealand, the Tongariro Crossing Guided Walk is an absolute essential. This world-renowned trail spans 19.4 kilometers (about 12 miles) across the volcanic heart of the North Island. Typically, the journey takes between 7 and 9
Taupo Bungy Jump
202 Spa Road, Taupō 3330, New Zealand Active & Adventure
Flexible
Price:Included in your tour package
Take the Plunge: The Ultimate Guide to Taupo New Zealand Bungy Jumping If you seek a massive adrenaline rush, Taupo New Zealand bungy jumping offers a thrill unlike any other. This site features the country’s highest cliff-top bungy jump. It sits 47 meters (154 feet) above the stunning Waikato River. Consequently, the combination of height
NZ Riverjet – The Squeeze
Reporoa, Lake Taupo Boat Cruises & Water Activities Active & Adventure
Flexible
Price:Included In Your Tour Package
Adventure Awaits with NZ Riverjet Through Tutukau Gorge Looking for an adventure that combines speed, scenery, and exploration? NZ Riverjet takes you on an unforgettable journey through Tutukau Gorge, blending an exhilarating jet boat ride with a unique hands-on hike through hidden thermal terrain. Begin with a Scenic Jet Boat Ride Your NZ Riverjet adventure
NZ Riverjet – Thermal Safari
Reporoa, Lake Taupo Boat Cruises & Water Activities Active & Adventure
Flexible
Price:Included In Your Tour Package
Experience the NZ Riverjet – Thermal Safari: Thrills Meet Nature The NZ Riverjet – Thermal Safari truly stands in a league of its own. This is because it perfectly blends a geothermal wonderland with a thrilling jet boat journey. Consequently, this 2.5 to 3-hour trip has become a “must-see” highlight for anyone visiting the Waikato

