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Taupo Adventures- Best things to do in Taupo
Taupo is a really cool place to visit. Lake Taupo is the biggest lake on the North Island New Zealand and the centre point to many activities for couples, friends and families alike. Let the fun begin.
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Taupo Adventure – Best things to do in Taupo
1. Orakei Korako Geothermal Park
Located 30 minutes drive north of Taupo is the impressive Orakei Korako Geothermal Park. If you are on a New Zealand Road Trip make sure you save time time to visit. It is regularly voted as the best of all the parks in the region by visitors.
The visitor centre stands on one side of the Wiakato river and the thermal park on the other side. After purchasing your ticket, you’ll be taken by boat across the river. From here, you are free to wander along the board walks and tracks that guide you to the various sights.
The silica terraces are one of the best features and include a vibrant amount of rich colour within the rock. Other features include up to 23 active geysers, the many bubbling mud pools, boiling hot springs and Ruatapu Cave.
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2. Craters of the Moon
Accessed via predominantly boardwalks, is the geothermal area of Craters of the Moon. The walking path is gentle and provides a safe overview of the steaming vents that rise up from the ground.
The main track will take around 45 minute to complete but be sure to take the shorter loop extension up to a stunning overview of the area.
The park is only $8 per adult and is open 10 am-4 pm daily except Christmas Day.
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3. Huka Falls
One of the best things to do in Taupo is Huka Falls. It is Taupo’s most visited attraction, and it’s FREE.
No visitor to Taupo should skip the chance to witness this amazing rush of water barreling at full speed before descending into an 11 metre drop waterfall. It is quite astounding to witness.
Hundreds of people stand at numerous viewing points to see 220.000 litres of water per second (aha, that’s right) hurtling through a narrow gorge along the Waikato River.
If you would like to explore the area more while here, take the walking track along the Waikato River which runs all the way to Spa Park.
4. Wairaki Terraces
For a relaxing dip in a naturally heated hot spring, you cannot miss Wairaki Terraces.The 3 pools are all adults only and entry will cost NZ $25 per person.
Whether a cold winters day or a cool summers night, it’s still a favourite spot here in Taupo. Ranging from 34 to 40 degrees Celsius, expect a toasty soak in each pool.
The property also has a thermal walk you can do (extra cost) and towels are available to hire if needed.
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5. Take a scenic ride around town
For a different way to see the sights, why not try a ride in the back on a Chevrolet Trike Motorcycle.
Enjoy a ride around the lake area with the wind flying through your hair and the sound of a V8 engine in the background. This thrilling adventure starts from lake side near the Taupo Sign.
The bike seats 4 passengers.
6. Lake Cruise to Maori Carvings
Not to be be missed, is a lake cruise to the Maori Carvings.
The largest lake in all of New Zealand can really only be explored by boat. Formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of year prior, the city of Taupo is build up around it.
Depending on what particular boat ride you decide to do, the trip starts from a 90 minute return leisurely cruise. You will get a chance to pull alongside the Maori rock carvings that adorn the cliff face. Get a briefing on the creation and significance of why these came to be before slowly cruising back to the Taupo Marina.
These are a range of tours that make there way out to the Maori Rock carvings including boat, sailboat, steamboat and Kayak.
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Full Range of all Maori Rock Carving Tours
7. Tongariro Crossing – Emerald Lakes Hike
One of New Zealand’s premier hikes is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. For the serious hiker or for anyone chasing a dramatic volcanic landscape, the crossing is a show stopper for all.
Expect the hike which is 20 km to take anywhere from 6 to 10 hours to complete. So make sure to bring good sturdy shoes, water, snacks and all weather gear.
The shuttle buses from Taupo will take you out and back so prepare for an early morning start in order to complete the hike without worrying about time.
Features on the hike include the Emerald and Blue Lakes, Red Crater and Te Maari crater. Participants are provided a return transfer from your hotel, a map and general information.
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Tongariro Alpine Crossing Shuttle
8. Kayak Adventures
Choose your kayak adventure in Taupo.
Half day Kayak Tour to the Maori Rock Carvings on Lake Taupo. Paddle your way through the tiny inlets up to the rock face for a close up while learning about the cultural significance of the area. You’ll be provided drinks and snacks and be able to go swimming. This tour leaves twice daily.
Another great option is the 2 hour Waikato River Kayak Tour. Take the scenic and relaxing tour along the river. Perfect for families and those up for a leisurely paddle. you’ll have the chance to swim and even soak in the thermal hot pools. It’s the perfect tranquil experience.
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Half Day Kayak to Maori Rock Carvings
Waikato River Guided Kayak Tour
9. Jet Boat Ride
Let’s face it, New Zealand is the place for adrenaline pumping adventure activities. So if skydiving and white water rafting seems a bit out of your comfort zone, then a jet boat ride is the perfect option.
Enjoy thrilling speeds and crazy turns along the Waikato River.There are two jet boat tours which last between 30 to 35 minutes.
Huka Falls Jet Boat Tour where you’ll get a front row seat of the thundering 11 metre drop falls.
The Waikato River Jet Boat Ride takes on the river rapids and through canyons on a heart stopping adventure.
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10. Wairaki Natural Thermal Valley
Take a walk through the thermal valley and through dense bushland just outside of the township of Taupo.
The boardwalks and paths are a little worse for wear and during rainy periods become somewhat muddy in places. It is definitely a place that’s been around for a while and not seen much maintenance. But if you love the thermal areas then don’t let this deter you. The walk through the bush is quite pretty and perfect on a warm day.
11. Great Lake Trail
The Great Lake Trail is an adventurer’s dream here in Taupo.
With over 70 km of trail close to Lake Taupo, enthusiasts can enjoy hours of thrilling and scenic bike trails close to town. In fact, New Zealand boasts an extensive network of bike trails right across the country.
Riding from west to east is considered a bit more down hill and easier to do but you can divide your rides into sections without having to complete any big days out on the trail. With a mixture of forested tracks and coastal trail, the ride provides plenty of scenery.
You can take a 2 day Great Lake Trail Ride Fully Guided Tour with bike and helmet included. A true Taupo adventure!
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12. Spa Park to Huka Falls Walk
This enjoyable and easy walk from Spa Park to Huka Falls is a great day out in the town of Taupo.
Following the Waikato River, the walk is around 3 km each way and is expected to take up to 2 hours to complete. If you are are not stopping along the way, expect it to be much quicker.
The terrain is mostly flat and there are toilet stops at either end. Be sure to check out the magnificent Huka Falls if you haven’t already and you might even catch someone taking on the bungee jump as you pass right by it.
13. Aratiatia Rapids
Every single day the Aratiatia Dam Wall is opened and visitors are allowed to watch it all unfold from the bridge or viewing platforms.
The first signs that anything is about to happen is the loud sirens that fill the air, a warning to anyone in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Watch as thousands of litres of water fill the shallow river bed before exploding over the rocks and pushing down stream. The whole process takes around 15 minutes. Times for the dam wall opening is best checked on the website to be accurate, but generally they open 3 times a day in winter and 4 times a day in summer.
14. Tandem Sky Diving
See the surrounding area of Taupo from high in the sky.
Experience the feeling of free falling from 12,000 feet in the air for 40 exhilarating seconds. . You’ll soar high above Lake Taupo for 20 minutes before taking the biggest leap of your life.
For a true adventure, you can’t miss the opportunity to partake in a once in a lifetime activity.
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15. DeBretts Spa & Water Park
Time to enjoy a day out in the outdoor and indoor pools at DeBretts Water park.
Start by unwinding in one of two large mineral pools, set among lush landscape. For the kids, there is a warm water park and slides to enjoy. Either way, everyone gets to have fun or just relax.
Prices start from $23 per adult and family passes are available.
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16. Huka Honey Hive
Head to the Huka Honey Hive for a range of 100% pure New Zealand products.
You’ll be able to sample some of the products including the pure taste of honey, Mead (honey wine) and liqueurs. The shop has a large range of skin products to try or simply browse.
The Huka Honey Hive is great for families, with live bee hive interactive displays. You can treat the kids to an ice-cream too while here.
17. Huka Prawn Park
Looking for a fun family activity. Then you must include a visit to the Huka Prawn park.
The prawn themed adventure park has a whole lot of activities to keep the kids and everyone entertained for hours. Start by making your way to the hatchery to hand feed baby prawns and take a guided tour to learn about the breeding process.
Next, get ready for some water activities such as pedal bikes, water trikes and paddle boards. Open Thursday to Monday- varied hours.
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18. Electric Scooter Hire on the Lake
The city of Taupo has been trialing the use of electric scooters around the lake and it appears to be a popular activity for many.
You will easily spot the scooters on lake side as there are so many. You can use them to cruise along the lakes’ walking path and even take them into town. A speedy and convenient way to get around Taupo.
19. Waipahihi Botanical Gardens
Located at the top of Shepherd Road is the town’s Botanical Gardens.
Explore over 35 hectares of garden and over 2000 rhododendrons, camellias and azaleas throughout. Take a walk through Lemonwood and the Foral Walk or rest and picnic beneath the trees.
The park is open till dusk every day.
20. Lava Glass Cafe
Come and visit the Lava Glass Cafe for breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea. Why not try the shared Lava Platter for two.
The cafe is more than just food though , with a glass blowing studio, glass gallery and sculpture garden. Open from 9 am to 4 pm, a perfect rainy day activity and those who appreciate art.
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21. World’s Coolest McDonalds
OK, it’s not everyday you get a recommendation to visit a McDonald’s on a “best things to do list ” BUT in this case there is a good reason.
A vintage DC3 plane has become a 20 seat restaurant as part of the restaurant chain. Built in 1943, it was once used as a commercial aircraft for New Zealand’s South Pacific Airlines. before being decommissioned and without a home.
If Macca’s is not your thing, you can grab a coffee and head on up to see the aircraft with an original cockpit still in tact. If you have young ones, I’m sure they will get a big kick out of it too.
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