Taupo Top 10
Our pick of the best activities to do in Taupo
Taupo is a resort town in New Zealand's central North Island, home to the country's largest freshwater lake, spectacular geothermal attractions, thundering waterfalls and a reputation for adventure.
To help you get the most out of your visit, we've put together our guide to the 'Top 10 Things To Do In Taupo'.
1. Huka Falls
As the most visited natural attraction in New Zealand, Huka Falls has to feature on any top 10 list. The sight of over 220,000 litres of water rushing beneath the viewing bridge will have you reaching for your phone camera. Located on the Waikato River, the falls culminate in an 11 metre drop where river cruises and jet boats congregrate for close up views. The Falls are a five minute drive from Taupo or take the scenic 60 minute riverside walk from Spa Park.
2. Orakei Korako
The 'Hidden Valley' of Orakei Korako is right at the top of best geothermal attractions to visit in the Central North Island region. It's the only geothermal attraction where a boat is required to reach the activity. The largest geyser field in New Zealand, a vast shelf of underwater silica and the famous Ruatapu Cave with hot pool at the bottom are just some of the reasons it warrants a visit. Located on 494 Orakei Korako Road, Rd 2, Reporoa,Taupo.
3. Huka Falls Jet
Reaching speeds of 80kph, the Huka Falls Jet is the thrill seekers way to see the natural wonder that is Huka Falls. Hurtling up the Waikato River, this half hour ride is quality over quantity which will leave you wanting more. Prepare for 360 spins and the closest view of the foaming waters of this captivating natural attraction.
4. Bungy Jumping
Standing on the platform, 47 metres above the turquoise waters of the volcanic Waikato River Valley, this is an activity big on views and big on adrenaline. Taupo Bungy offer the option to touch the crystal clear waters below or reach speeds up to 70kph on their 'Cliff Hanger' swing. Located on 202 Spa Road,
5. Skydiving
From heights of 9000,12,000 and 15,000 feet, Skydive Taupo offer tandem skydiving over Lake Taupo. What better way to appeciate to incredible landscape of Taupo than falling through the air at up to 2000kph! Located on Anzac Memorial Drive, Taupo Airport.
6. Tongariro Crossing
The 750sqm Tongariro National Park was famously cast as 'Mordor' in the Lord of the Rings film trilogy. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing track is one of New Zealand's great walks, covering 24.5 kilometres of active volcanic terrain, passing by the emerald lakes of Mt Tongariro and the eastern base of Mt Ngauruhoe. The one way walk takes between seven and nine hours to complete. Transport companies drop off trampers at the starting point of Mangatepopo Valley car park and collect from the end of the track at Ketatahi Road car park.
7. Wairekei Terraces and Thermal Health Spa
Wairakei Terraces and Thermal Health Spa is a chance to soak in silica enriched hot pools. The physical and spiritual rejuvenation qualities of the waters have long attracted visitors to this attraction. Along with the relaxing hot pools, visitors can follow the walkway around the steam filled terraces, book a massage treatment and enjoy a Maori cultural experience. Located on Wairakei Road..
8. Lake Cruise
Head to Taupo Marina to experience an outdoor adventure on Lake Taupo. Cruising options include luxury catamaran and sailing boats that will take you to see maori rock carvings and captivating views of the snow capped mountains of Tongariro National Park. With trout available all year round, combine a cruise with a spot of fishing.
9. Skiing On An Active Volcano
Situated in Tongariro National Park, the ski resorts of Whakapapa and Turoa offer a unique skiing experience with the opportunity to ski down an active volcano in a World Heritage Area. Advanced skiers will appreciate the skills needed to tackle the 24 black grade runs of Whakapapa. After a day on the slopes on either of the ski fields, head in to Ohakune, the favorite post ski town in the area.
10. Craters of the Moon
The 45 minute loop walk across the 'Craters of the Moon' landscape feels like a distance planet with numerous steam filled craters, caverns, mud pools and fumeroles. This low cost attraction offers a fascinating and fun geological experience over 35 acres, just outside of Taupo. Located Karapiti Road.
