Top things to do in Taupō

The Taupō region is home to New Zealand's largest fresh water lake, intriguing geothermal areas and world-famous Huka Falls. The amazing scenery and multiple options for fun are accompanied by a genuinely friendly local culture. The lakeside community is alive with great places to eat, drink and make merry.

Lake Taupō contains about 59 cubic kilometres of water! So when you're choosing stuff to do in Taupō, water-fun should be top of your list. Here's a quick summary of ways to pay homage to one of the biggest lakes in the world:

Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori rock carvings: On Lake Taupō you can discover the extraordinary Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori rock carvings – one of the best things to see in Taupō. These enormous art works are etched into cliffs above the water. You can see them on a cruise or by hiring kayaks.

Cruises on Lake Taupo: Scenic boat trips come in all shapes and sizes. Chris Jolly Outdoors offers sunset cruises and several other choices, while Sail Barbary invites you to enjoy a trip on New Zealand's only commercial electric sail boat. Other options include Venture Beyond, Taupō Sailing Adventures and the replica steamboat Ernest Kemp.

Kayaking: Exploring Lake Taupō by kayak lets you set your own pace. Paddle your way to pretty coves, beaches and lakeside parks.

Doughboats: Captain a doughnut boat for a picnic with a difference. Circular, electric-powered doughboats are perfect for a leisurely cruise with family or friends. Bring your own drinks and nibbles.

Huka Falls: The sheer power of the water as it plummets over volcanic rock formations is a sight to behold. Take a walk along the trails to find different vantage points, or cruise on a riverboat to get up close and personal with this remarkable waterfall.

Aratiatia Rapids: Arrive just before the scheduled dam release to watch the gates open. Instantly, the tranquil river transforms into a raging torrent. It's an incredible display of nature's power and a great photo opportunity.

Bring your courage and daring to Taupō, because it's time to tick a bunch of thrilling experiences off your to-do list. Here are some ideas:

White water rafting: Navigate the twists and turns of the Tongariro River, experiencing the challenge of tackling rapids while surrounded by gorgeous natural landscapes.

Jet boating: Refresh your day with water spray, thrills and laughter on a Waikato River jet boat adventure. Catch the Huka Falls jet to zoom right up close to Huka Falls. Or get on board Rapid Jet for a rollicking adventure through river canyons.

Taupō Go Karts: Satisfy your need for speed by racing high-performance go-karts around a purpose-built track. This experience makes an excellent family activity or a thrilling outing with friends.

AJ Hackett Bungy Taupō: Suspended above the Waikato River, this 47-meter bungy platform offers a heart-pounding leap into thin air. The sensation of freefall and the subsequent rebound are exhilarating.

AJ Hackett Swing Taupō: Soar over the Waikato River on a gravity-defying mission you'll be talking about for days. This is an extraordinary way to appreciate the natural beauty of the location.

Taupō Parasail: Be gently lifted into the sky for a long-lasting adrenalin buzz and panoramic views of the lake and Tongariro National Park.

Taupō Tandem Skydive: Tick off one of life's must-dos and discover the euphoria of freefall, as well as the breathtaking beauty of Lake Taupō. The thrill and awe of tandem skydiving lives with you forever.

Jet ski hire: Have a blast on the lake to combine sightseeing with thrill-seeking. You can join a jet ski tour to the amazing Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori rock carvings or make up your own self-guided adventure. No experience needed.

Nature's playground beckons for one-day adventures that will fill your soul. Check out this selection of outdoorsy Taupō attractions:

Rock'n Ropes: Prove you can handle high places by taking on the high ropes walks at one of New Zealand's most experienced high wire adventure parks.

Taupō bike hire: Rent a bike to explore Taupō's scenic beauty on two wheels. Discover cycling routes that showcase the area's lake, geothermal and forest landscapes.

Whakapapa and Turoa: In winter and spring, hit the slopes of Mount Ruapehu. Enjoy volcanic skiing and snowboarding on Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields.

Trout fishing: Unlock the mysteries of trout fishing with help from an experienced guide, then see if you can catch dinner. Tūrangi is the hub for trout fishing in the Taupō region.

Taupō walks: Discover short and long scenic walks in and around Taupō. The ultimate walk is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a one-day adventure through an extraordinary volcanic landscape.

Bike trails: Rent a bike to explore Taupō's picturesque trails, which range from super-easy to ultra-challenging.

Geothermal Segway Safari: Zoom through the forest on segways, stopping whenever you like to admire the natural geothermal phenomena.

The Taupō Volcanic Zone, part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, has created some fascinating geothermal activities in Taupō. These range from hot pools through to walks through valleys of fumaroles and geysers. Here's a summary of the best:

Debretts pools: Soak in mineral-rich, naturally-heated pools surrounded by lush gardens and beautiful views. Taupō DeBretts includes large outdoor pools, private pools, a waterpark and a day spa.

Wairakei Terraces: Manmade, but with a lot of help from nature, Wairakei Terraces is an adults-only wonderland where geothermal waters flow down cascading silica terraces. There are pools for soaking, spa treatments and a terrace walk.

Orakei Korako Cave & Geothermal Park: This mysterious valley is a simmering spectacle with geysers, mineral terraces, bubbling mud pools and steaming caves.

Craters of the Moon: Wander through a surreal landscape of hissing steam vents, boiling craters and bubbling mud pools in a highly active geothermal area.

Taupō Hot Water Beach: Discover a geothermally heated lakeside beach at Waipahihi, where you can enjoy a warm soak or simply a hot paddle. It's a favourite free activity.

Fascinating family fun

A family holiday in Taupō is a great New Zealand tradition that we just love to share with international visitors. There's always something cool to do, such as:

Tongariro National Trout Centre: Learn about aquatic life at the National Trout Centre in Tūrangi. Enjoy interactive exhibits, fish feeding and beautiful natural surroundings.

Huka Honey Hive: This educational and sweet experience (honey tasting!) teaches your kids about honey production and the life of bees.

Dropzone at The Landing: The whole family can burn off some energy at this massive indoor play place. From trampolines and a Ninja course to tenpin bowling and a video arcade, this destination is all about fun.

Korohe Horse Treks: Riding experience isn't required to enjoy a smile-full family horse trek through the forest, along the river and over the hills.

Huka Prawn Park: Non-stop family fun with paddle boats, water fights, geothermal foot baths, an aquarium, prawn feeding, stand-up paddle boarding and much more.

Mini Golf Taupō: At Taupō Mini Golf or Swingers Putt Putt, laugh your way through 18 holes of fun and rivalry, accompanied by views of the lake and mountains.

Siberian Huskies: Visit Timberline Racing Siberian Huskies to see sled dogs doing their thing. You can pat and cuddle the dogs too.

Places to stay in Taupō

When it comes to accommodation, Taupō has a bit of everything - from luxurious lakeside resorts to cosy motels, holiday parks, B & Bs and hostels. You can also rent holiday homes for longer stays.