Taupo, in the middle of New Zealand’s North Island, is famous for its beautiful scenery and adventure activities. The town is located on the edge of Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake, making it an excellent place for boating, fishing and water sports. Visitors to the park can also soak up the stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, including iconic Mount Ruapehu in the distance. Taupo serves as a gateway to the nearby Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where visitors can find world-class hiking, skiing and the famed Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
It is also home to a number of unique geothermal attractions that have visitors marveling in the world’s greatest natural wonders as Huka Falls, where the Waikato River tumbles through a narrow gorge as one of the most awesome sights in the land. Visitors can discover the rugged beauty of Craters of the Moon, a geothermal reserve where steaming vents and bubbling mud pools dot the landscape, or take a soak in the natural hot springs of Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs. Including those craving for relaxation surrounded by nature.
Lake Taupo
Lake Taupo is New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake and is often rated among the country’s most scenic spots. The vast lake was created after a huge volcanic explosion 26,000 years ago. Gorgeous views and glimmering blue water cover every angle, and there are countless activities for visitors here. Around this part of New Zealand you will find plenty of beautiful forests, mountains, and towns, including the town of Taupo itself which is full of local character and good tourist facilities.
Named Big Bear Lake, it is suitable for all kinds of water-related activities like fishing, boating, kayaking, and sailing, which makes it a must-have destination for adventurers and nature lovers. In the summer, the lake is a hive of activity with wakeboarding and jet skiing, while in the winter, the stillness of the lake and surrounding landscapes provide those wishing to escape the masses with a peaceful getaway. A number of walking and cycling tracks line the shores of Lake Taupo as well, providing more leisure and exploration into the stunning natural landscape.
In some places along the lake, visitors can even swim — the water stays pleasantly cool even in summer heat. Whether you want to relax in castaway style, or are looking for something a bit more adventurous, the lakeside town of Taupo offers something for everyone, all with stunning views over snow-capped mountains in the distance.
Address: Taupo, New Zealand
Website: https://www.laketauponz.com
Huka Falls
Huka Falls is one of New Zealand’s most famous and most visited natural attractions, famed for its thunderous cascades and dramatic scenery. Only a few kilometers north of Taupo, the falls mark the place where New Zealand’s longest river, the Waikato, abruptly constricts to a mere 15 meters across before crashing 11 meters into a pool below.
This immense volume of water plunges over the edge at around 220,000 liters a second, resulting in plumes of roiling froth and a frenzy of mist which sweeps up from the base of the falls. The area around is filled with native flora, and there are several viewing platforms where travelers can view the complete splendor of the falls.
If you want to get more up close with the falls, boat tours are available where you can feel the brunt of the water crashing down as it surges over the edge. On all the walks around the falls there are also gorgeous views of the river and nearby landscapes, making it a great destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re taking in the view from the platforms or walking on the surrounding trails, Huka Falls is always impressive with its beauty and power of nature.
Address: Huka Falls Road, Taupo, New Zealand
Website: https://www.hukafalls.co.nz
Tongariro National Park
Nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts should not skip Tongariro National Park. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and New Zealand’s oldest national park, giving it both historical and cultural significance. The park is home to three active volcanoes — Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Ruapehu — providing dramatic scenery as well as outdoor activities galore.
A 19.4-kilometer trek through volcanic craters, emerald lakes and alpine meadows, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of the most scenic day hikes in the world and every bit of it is memorable. It is a strenuous hike, but well worth the effort as hikers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic vistas through the volcanic scenery.
Skiers can head to the park’s Mount Ruapehu, which is home to one of New Zealand’s largest ski resorts, with slopes for every skill level. As well as hiking and skiing, the park includes several shorter walking tracks, suitable for families and those after an easier outdoor experience. The area also holds great Māori custom significance with the local iwi (tribes) viewing the area as sacred. Cultural sites within the park tell the story of the land and the people who lived on it. Whether that’s hiking, skiing or just getting a great view, the Tongariro National Park is one you won’t forget.
Address: Tongariro National Park, New Zealand
Craters of the Moon
On the edge of Taupo lies Craters of the Moon, a spectacular geothermal park that cracks open the raw energy of the Earth’s geothermal forces. It includes a region with active volcanic and geothermal characteristics such as steaming vents bubbling mud pools and huge craters left by past eruptions.
Here the landscape becomes extraterrestrial; steam plumes up out of the earth, the smell of sulfur permeates the air. All of these geothermal features are close to the walking track that criss-crosses the keeping park, and visitors can get up close and personal with steam geysers, boiling mud pots, bubbling springs, and colorful mineral deposits. The Craters of the Moon trail goes past hot springs and fumaroles (steam vents) and gives access to decent views of the surrounding landscape.
The region also hosts a plethora of unique flora and fauna, specialized to withstand the demanding geothermal setting. Interpretive signs along the trail explain the geological and volcanic history of the region, making it a both educational and visually stunning experience. If you’re a geology nerd or just someone who’s keen to have an experience that’s a little out of the ordinary, Craters of the Moon provides an interesting insight into the geothermal activity that gives the Taupo region its character.
Address: Karapiti Road, Taupo, New Zealand
Website: https://www.cratersofthemoon.co.nz
Taupo Museum and Art Gallery
The Taupo Museum and Art Gallery offers an excellent opportunity to delve into the cultural andhistoric past of the Taupo region. Situated in central Taupo, the museum features an interesting array of exhibits that highlight the region’s natural history, Māori culture, and European settlement. The museum’s permanent collection features geological displays detailing the formation of Lake Taupo and the surrounding landscapes, as well as artifacts that recount the story of the region’s early Māori inhabitants.
Art lovers will appreciate the museum’s very pleasing art gallery, which features rotating pieces – contemporary and historic, and both local and national – at regular intervals. The museum features several temporary exhibitions a year, making sure that there is something new to discover every time you go. At the center, visitors can learn about the cultural significance of the Taupo area, as well as the scientific processes that led to the development of the region’s volcanic landscape.
One of its appeals as a tourist destination is that is also a family-friendly venue, with interactive exhibits and educational programs for children and young visitors. So, make sure to visit Taupo Museum and Art Gallery if you want to know more about why it is so beautiful part of New Zealand, no matter if you interested in art, history or geology.
Address: 4 Story Place, Taupo, New Zealand
Website: https://www.taupomuseum.org.nz
Wairakei Terraces
A geothermal wonder just outside Taupo, Wairakei Terraces. The stunning white silica terraces, similar to cascading waterfalls, were created by geothermal activity over thousands of years. There are hot pools that look like they should have steam wafting off of them, geysers, and all manner of surreal peace.
At Wairakei Terraces, visitors can join guided tours of the site, where they learn about the geothermal processes that created the terraces and the significance of the area to the local Māori people. Soak in the therapeutic waters you’ll love and enjoy at the Wairakei Terraces (a geothermal hot springs); the several mineral rich thermal pools here (infused with healing properties!) will certainly get you relaxed and feeling your best!
It has a lovely restaurant on site, and meals can be served against the stunning background of the terraces and landscape. Wairakei Terraces is also great for experiencing Māori culture as the area is of huge significance to the local iwi (tribes). The site frequently hosts cultural activations and encounters designed to immerse guests in the rich, interwoven legacies of the region.
Address: Wairakei Drive, Taupo, New Zealand
Website: https://www.wairakeiterraces.co.nz
Kayaking on Lake Taupo
One of the best ways to see the pristine glory of New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake is kayaking on Lake Taupo. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced expert, kayaking on Lake Taupo is a must try for visitors as the water is crystal clear and surrounded by stunning mountains in the background. Whether you’re gliding across the peaceful waters on a clear day or taking on the more challenging components of the lake, you will be flanked by beautiful natural views.
You can rent a kayak at several spots around the lake, and many operators offer guided tours that lead to some of the lake’s most beautiful and sequestered places. We chose to kayak out onto Lake Taupo to see the famous Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay. With access only obtainable by boat or kayak, these ornate carvings of characters from Māori folklore make for a truly unique experience.
The peaceful setting of the lake also means you can enjoy some birdwatching, with a few varieties of native New Zealand birds visibly milling about along the shoreline. Whether you prefer a leisurely paddle or an adventurous workout, kayaking on Lake Taupo creates a fun and eco-friendly way to immerse yourself in the beauty of home to explore the beauty of this spectacular destination.
Address: Various locations around Lake Taupo
Website: https://www.laketaupokayaking.co.nz
Taupo Bungy and Cliffhanger
If you are an adrenalin junkie, look no further than Taupo Bungy and Cliffhanger. As one of New Zealand’s most iconic bungy jumps, Taupo Bungy is just outside of town. The 47-meter-high platform hangs over the breathtaking Waikato River, ensuring you have an unreal view as you hurl yourself off into the air beneath you.
Hanging from great heights is the ultimate test of nerve to a lot of people, and it doesn’t get better than a nerve-wracking zip-line experience. The Taupo Bungy jump is New Zealand’s highest from over water, and is suitable for anyone aged 10 years or above. If that’s not your cup of tea, then the nearby Cliffhanger activity offers a different alternative for thrill-seekers.
The Cliffhanger is a ride that pendulum swings you off the edge of a cliff, whooshing you out over the river below, where you all experience the free fall feeling. Both undertakings also have professional safety measures in place, so while you want to risk death, you can feel safe while the thrill of impending doom draws over you. If you are looking to spice up your New Zealand adventure, then head over to Taupo Bungy and Cliffhanger.
Address: 202 Spa Road, Taupo, New Zealand
Website: https://www.taupobungy.co.nz
A.C. Baths
A.C. Baths (known as Taupo’s Hot Pools) is a nice way to soak away a day of fun. A short drive to the north of the town’s center, the hot pools are fed by the geothermal springs that New Zealanders know Taupo for. The natural mineral waters also have therapeutic and soothing effects, both on sore muscles and a tired mind; relaxing and revitalizing you. A.C. Baths offers a variety of pools including private pools, a family pool and an expansive outdoor pool overlooking the countryside.
With hot springs and warm pools, the waters have their own temperature ranges so everyone can enjoy a refreshing dip or a hot soak. As a result, it is also a great site to bring children, and there are also other amenities on site like a café where you can get refreshments to savor in your relaxing surrounding. Whether you want to relax with a visit to the spa, or just take advantage of the natural thermal waters, A.C. Baths is a great place to visit for anyone staying in the Taupo area.
Address: 32 Taharepa Road, Taupo, New Zealand
Website: https://www.acbathsnz.co.nz
Prawn Park
Located on the Rangitaiki River, Prawn Park is simply fun for everybody. You can have prawn fishing and catch your own prawns to eat, freshly cooked at the park.
It is also the site of a unique prawn farming operation, raising freshwater prawns in ponds where the waters are warmed by the region’s geothermal activity. Visitors get to know the farming procedures and the scientific aspects of prawn aquaculture here and it proves to be an enlightening yet entertaining experience.
The park also has a small café that serves fresh prawn dishes as well as other local dishes. If you’re looking for a fun and unique activity that you can do with the family at the same time, then a visit to Prawn Park for a few hours is well worthwhile. Here’s a fun place for children to explore while adults will appreciate being able to taste some of the freshest prawns anywhere in New Zealand.
Address: 2234 Broadlands Road, Taupo, New Zealand
Website: https://www.prawnpark.co.nz
Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs
A luxury geothermal spa, Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs offers a range of thermal pools and spa treatments for those wishing to relax and unwind. The hot springs are fed by the geothermal waters of the Taupo region and the complex offers a variety of pools, including private mineral pools, large outdoor pools and a family pool area.
Famous for its mineral waters with healing properties, travelers can take advantage of hot springs and breathtaking views over the local mountains and countryside. Aside from the pools themselves, Taupo DeBretts has its own spa where guests can indulge in massage, facials and other therapeutic treatments.
Well-appointed facilities, perfect for relaxing in at the end of a long days exploring Taupo. Children can enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere thanks to an entertaining water playground. A soothing escape or pampering spa treatment, Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs is ideal to relax and unwind.
Address: 76 Napier Road, Taupo, New Zealand
Website: https://www.debretts.co.nz
Maori Rock Carvings
17 The Māori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay The Māori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay are some of the most impressive examples of Māori art found in New Zealand. The carvings, made by Māori artists in the 1970s and 1980s, represent figures from Māori mythology and are carved into the cliffs of Lake Taupo.
Visitors have a unique experience of only getting to the carvings by boat. Most lake tours give you the opportunity to get close to the carvings and learn about their cultural significance. The largest of the carvings shows the figure of a Māori chief, while the others feature gods and ancestors.
Artworks can line the shores of the clear waters of Lake Taupo, creating a place that is both visually and culturally striking. These intricate carvings are a reflection of the expertise and artistry of the local Māori people, and they provide a remarkable glimpse into their history and mythology.
Address: Mine Bay, Lake Taupo, New Zealand
Website: https://www.taupotours.co.nz
Great Lake Walkway
The Great Lake Walkway is a picturesque, 16-kilometer walk along the shores of Lake Taupo, showcasing stunning views of the lake itself, the mountains, and the picturesque countryside. It is for walkers and cyclists is a great way to discover the Taupo region’s natural beauty in your own time.
The course starts at the Taupo Marina and follows the edge of the lake, through native bush, grassy fields and sandy beaches. There are many places to stop and enjoy the vista along the way, including benches and observation platforms at several vantage points. The Great Lake Walkway is an area loved by both locals and tourists, providing a tranquil escape from the busy town. The trail system is broken up into segments, making it easy to experience it at your own speed, whether you’re looking for a short stroll or a more extensive jaunt.
Address: Taupo, New Zealand
Website: https://www.greatlakewalkway.co.nz
Waikato River Trails
The Waikato River Trails: More than 100 kilometers of trails wind alongside the beautiful Waikato River, perfect for cycling, walking, or just enjoying the stunning scenery. Most of the trails are segmented into a few different sections, each with their own highlights and scenery. Along the way, you’ll traverse native forests, farmland and pretty rural settlements, all with views of waterfalls, bridges and the river itself.
The trails accommodate all fitness levels and can be experienced across days or in shorter segments. The Waikato River Trails are a great way to get outdoors and see some of the stunning and diverse sights in the Taupo area.
Address: Waikato River, Taupo, New Zealand
Website: https://www.waikatorivertrails.com