Combining beautiful scenery, adventurous leisure activities and divine sightseeing opportunities, Taupo really does have it all! Located in the middle of the North Island, Taupo is well-known for it’s fresh water lake, which is the same size as the entire country of Singapore! With a fabulous Maori heritage and friendly locals, Taupo really is worth a visit.
We’ve put together a collection of what we believe are the top ten things to do in Taupo.
Huka Falls – an 11-metre-high waterfall, Huka Falls are a must visit attraction! The Waikato River narrows to only 15 metres wide at the point of the falls, forcing water to thunder over a volcanic ledge at a tremendous rate of 220,000 litres per second.
Natural Hot Springs – stand aside Hamner Springs – Taupo have their own natural thermal pools too! From resort style thermal waters at Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs, through to the Otumuheke Stream at Spa Park, there are thermal hot pools to suit everyone. You can even find hot spots around the lake itself.
Craters of the Moon – a visit to this geothermal park is a must! Filled with steaming vents, bubbling craters and an ever-changing landscape, expect to spend around an hour exploring this park.
Great Lake Walkway – fancy a stroll? The Great Lake Walkway is a 10km paved track which begins at Taupo Harbour and ends at Five Mile Bay. Suitable for strollers, bikes, joggers and walkers, there are plenty of places to sit and enjoy the scenery, or even have a picnic.
Huka Prawn Park – go fishing for your lunch at the Huka Prawn Park! This prawn farm is family friendly and offers guided tours too.
Mount Ruapehu – go rock climbing in summer or skiing during winter on this occasionally active volcano. Only around an hour’s drive from Taupo.
Waipahihi Botanical Reserve – stroll amongst native trees and plants in this 85-acre reserve which was developed in 1966. On the outskirts of Taupo, this reserve is maintained mostly by volunteers, as it has been since it’s conception.
Trout Fishing – by boat or from the shore, fishing for trout in Lake Taupo is a must. Don’t forget to buy your fishing license though!
Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings – accessible only by boat, the Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings were completed in 1980 by a team of Maori carvers. Taking over four years to complete, these carvings are 14 metres above Lake Taupo and are one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions.
Taupo is a wonderful place to visit anytime during the year. Do you have a favourite memory of your time in Taupo? We’d love you to share it with us!