7 Tourist Activities for a Fun Holiday in Taupo – Central North Island – New Zealand

Located on the edge of Lake Taupo in the central North Island and the largest freshwater volcanic lake in New Zealand, Taupo is a popular tourist destination. Tourists are not only attracted by the magnificent scenic beauty of the area. There are many exciting activities for tourists and travelers to experience in and around Taupo.

You are sure to find something on this list that will make you include Taupo in your New Zealand travel itinerary. It’s on the way to Wellington and is a natural stopover while touring the country.

Scenic boat cruises

There are a selection of scenic boat cruises that will take you around Lake Taupo, including the Maori rock carvings, which can only be reached by boat. You can go for a modern cat cruise, a luxury cruise, or something more historic…a replica of a 1920s steamboat or sailboat once owned by Errol Flynn.

There are speedboats and cruises to see Huka Falls and the Waikato River, and a riverboat to tour the various geothermal sites in the area, including Orakei Korako.

kayaking

Taupo is a great place to kayak, whether it’s scenic kayaking or whitewater kayaking on the rivers…for those who need some excitement. You can choose a guided kayak tour or self-guided tours. Explore the many bays around the lake, the Waikato and Tongariro rivers and many other creeks and inlets. You’ll meander through steaming geothermal areas, sheer cliffs, and beautiful bushes…with only the chirping of birds to break the silence. There are kayak sessions for anything from a few hours to a few days. All skill levels are catered for.

Fishing

Taupo is known for its trout fishing. It attracts people from all over the world eager to take a break and try the art of fly fishing on the Tongariro River or Lake Taupo. Others prefer to rent a boat and fish in the lake.

Geothermal Activity

Geothermal energy is harnessed in Taupo…a world first. You will see the large pipes and billows of steam as you enter the city. There are many pockets of exciting thermal activity that are fascinating… with boiling mud pools, steam vents, geysers and the general strange feeling of the colorful terrain. Orakei Korako and Karapiti Craters of the Moon are great experiences.

Thermal Pools and Spas

There are many thermal pools in the area, but some are a bit out of the way. Swimming in natural thermal pools will make you feel wonderfully relaxed. De Bretts Thermal Pools and Spa on the south side of Taupo has long been the place to enjoy thermal pools and thermal spas. Tokanuu is another, where you can enjoy a relaxing bath.

Hiking and Tramping

Hiking and tramping tracks abound in this area. Tongariro National Park has many tracks for all fitness levels, from the famous Tongariro Crossing day hike – a fairly demanding 17km hike, to short but very beautiful bush walks. Both in the surroundings of Taupo and the National Park… you will find many pleasant walks. Although in winter, you will most likely be skiing or snowboarding in the National Park. The road from Turangi can sometimes be closed in bad weather.

Adventure activities: for those who want excitement and an adrenaline rush

• tandem skydiving
• Parasailing: The views are breathtaking, as you soar through the air over the lake.
• Taupo Bungy Jump is a very popular bungee.
• Boat ride on the Waikato River
• Whitewater Rafting – There are different grades for different nerves!
• Mountain bike