Taupo, New Zealand, a vibrant town strategically positioned in the heart of the North Island, beckons travelers with its captivating blend of natural beauty and thrilling adventures. Situated on the northeastern shores of Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand, often referred to as an "inland sea," Taupo serves as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. This dynamic adventure capital provides a perfect base for exploring the surrounding landscapes, from hiking through lush bush and scaling dormant volcanoes to kayaking across the lake’s crystal-clear waters and sailing on eco-friendly yachts. Encircled by the majestic Tongariro National Park, Taupo promises an unforgettable experience filled with diverse activities and breathtaking scenery. And after a day of exhilarating outdoor pursuits, you can unwind and rejuvenate your senses in the area’s geothermal hot springs, where mineral-rich waters offer soothing relief to tired muscles.
Here are the top 10 things to do in Top 10 Things to Do in Taupo, New Zealand, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this captivating region:
- Kayak to the Māori Carvings:
Embark on a unique cultural journey by kayaking to the magnificent Māori Rock Carvings in Mine Bay, accessible only by water. These impressive carvings, standing at an imposing 45 feet (14 meters) tall, are a testament to Māori artistry and cultural heritage. Created by the late master carver Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell, the central figure depicts Ngatoroirangi, a revered Māori navigator, as a tribute to his ancestors. The carving took four summers to complete and was considered "a gift to Taupo" by the artist.
The artwork has become an iconic symbol of the region’s rich Māori culture. Guided kayak tours depart from Acacia Bay in Taupo, offering an opportunity to witness these treasured carvings up close, while also exploring other fascinating features around the lake. Paddle through the tranquil waters, surrounded by stunning scenery, and immerse yourself in the history and artistry of the Māori people.
- Swim at Kinloch Beach:
Escape to the serene shores of Kinloch Beach, located just 12 miles (20 kilometers) west of Taupo, and discover a perfect spot for relaxation and water-based activities. This sandy beach, nestled along the shores of Lake Taupo, provides an ideal setting for swimming, fishing, and boating. Kinloch Beach is located in the heart of the Whangamata Stream Scenic Reserve, which is covered with dense, verdant forests that are perfect for hiking and biking.
Originally a sheep station, Kinloch has evolved into a popular holiday destination, boasting a golf course and a marina. The clear waters of the lake attract water skiers, kayakers, and paddleboarders, while a pontoon-style floating dock offers a convenient platform for diving and docking.
- Hike to Huka Falls:
Prepare to be mesmerized by the sheer power and beauty of Huka Falls, a natural wonder located just a mile (1.6 kilometers) from Taupo. Here, a portion of the Waikato River, the outflow of Lake Taupo, surges through a narrow gorge at an astounding rate of 220,000 liters per second, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
Witness the cascading water from various viewing points, including a footbridge strategically positioned directly above the falls. For a more immersive experience, embark on the Spa Park to Huka Falls Trail, an easy one-hour walk that meanders along the tranquil river and through exotic native forests. The trail offers stunning views of the falls and the surrounding landscape.
- Soak in Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs:
Indulge in the ultimate relaxation experience at Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs Spa Resort, a haven of tranquility nestled amidst the geothermal landscape. Taupo’s location in the heart of a vast geothermal area, dotted with volcanoes like Rotorua and White Island, has created this geothermal paradise. Immerse yourself in the therapeutic waters of the outdoor pools, or opt for the privacy of an indoor pool with varying temperatures.
Families with children will delight in the hydro slide complex, warm water playground, and splash park. The resort also features a café and a day spa, offering a complete wellness experience. Located just 3 miles (5 kilometers) from Taupo, Taupo DeBretts is easily accessible via New Zealand State Highway 5 from Napier.
- Sail Lake Taupo:
Embark on a memorable sailing adventure on Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand. Choose from a variety of sailing options, including a peaceful day sail aboard an eco-yacht or a more action-packed experience on a 39-foot catamaran.
The zero-emission electric yacht provides a serene sailing experience, allowing you to explore hidden bays and the historical rock carvings of Mine Bay. Depending on the weather, the eco-vessel will glide along powered by sail or a silent electric motor. For a more thrilling adventure, the catamaran trip includes trout fishing, clay bird shooting, barbecuing, stand-up paddleboarding, and swimming.
- Take a Geothermal Walk in Craters of the Moon:
Venture into the surreal landscape of Craters of the Moon, a protected geothermal field located just 3.5 miles (5.5 kilometers) north of Taupo, near Huka Falls. This otherworldly environment features bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and sulfurous gases, creating a unique and fascinating experience.
Explore the trails, including the Main Walkway, a 40-minute easy walk that leads past the field’s main crater, and the Upper Walkway, a 20-minute moderate hike that ascends to a lookout point. As you traverse the boardwalk and gravel pathways, you’ll be enveloped in steam at certain points, before emerging into clearings that offer panoramic views of the geothermal landscape.
- Smell the Flowers at Waipahihi Botanical Gardens:
Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at Waipahihi Botanical Gardens, encompassing 86 acres of diverse plant life. The gardens showcase a vast collection of native plants, including over 2,000 rhododendrons, camellias, and azaleas, interspersed with trees and other plantings.
A 1.2-mile (2-kilometer) driving loop provides ample opportunities to admire the gardens, with stops along the way to take in the views of Mount Tauhara and Lake Taupo. Themed walking trails invite visitors to explore specific species of plants and flowers, while birdwatching opportunities abound throughout the gardens.
- Play a Round of Golf at Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary:
Tee off at Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary, a world-class golf course that also serves as a wildlife sanctuary. This unique golf course collaborates with New Zealand’s Department of Conservation to create habitats for native birds and wildlife.
The 18-hole golf course spans 444 acres of natural rolling countryside, utilizing natural terrain features and man-made bunkers as obstacles. Set in a geothermal area of Wairakei on the outskirts of town, the grounds also feature a hotel, restaurants, a conference center, a pro shop, and practice areas. This combination of world-class golf and environmental conservation makes Wairakei a truly exceptional destination.
- Jet Boat the Waikato River:
Experience an adrenaline rush on a jet boat ride down the Waikato River, particularly the stretch between Huka Falls and the Aratiatia Dam. These high-speed boats navigate the waterway at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour (90 kilometers per hour), skillfully maneuvering around obstacles and executing thrilling donut maneuvers.
Cruise past volcanic riverbanks and witness geothermal features, such as mud pots and steaming geysers. Navigate through the towering 164-foot (50-meter) cliff walls of the Tutukau Gorge, discovering hidden caves and silica terraces. This area is renowned for its exceptional jet boating opportunities.
- Go Skiing at Whakapapa Ski Field and Happy Valley:
Hit the slopes at Whakapapa Ski Field in Tongariro National Park, located approximately 64 miles (103 kilometers, or about a 1.5-hour drive) from Taupo township. The volcanic terrain of this ski area offers skiers and snowboarders a variety of terrain features, including groomed trails, snow-filled basins, steep chutes, and powder stashes.
Whakapapa is New Zealand’s largest commercial ski field, operating from early June through late October, boasting the country’s longest ski season. The resort features the longest gondola in New Zealand, an extensive beginner area, and its own café and ski school. Even in the summer, the gondola provides access to the summit, where visitors can dine at Knoll Ridge Chalet and enjoy spectacular views of Tongariro National Park.
These Top 10 Things to Do in Taupo, New Zealand provide a diverse range of experiences, catering to every traveler’s interests and preferences. From thrilling outdoor adventures to relaxing geothermal spas and cultural encounters, Taupo offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of New Zealand’s North Island. Top 10 Things to Do in Taupo, New Zealand is a great way to spend your time.
