Overview

Taupō, perched on the edge of New Zealand’s largest lake, is a natural playground sculpted by fire and water. Famous for its geothermal activity, trout fishing, and proximity to world-class hikes, Taupō balances raw adventure with peaceful lakeside charm. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, soaking in mineral-rich pools, or kayaking to Māori rock carvings, Taupō invites travellers of all kinds to explore, relax and reconnect with nature.

Highlights

  • Huka Falls: One of New Zealand’s most powerful waterfalls, famous for its turquoise torrents and jetboat thrills.
  • Lake Taupō Cruises: Explore the lake by kayak or catamaran and see the iconic Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay.
  • Aratiatia Rapids: Watch controlled dam releases transform the Waikato River into a raging cascade.
  • Orakei Korako: A surreal geothermal park filled with silica terraces, bubbling mud pools and steaming caves.
  • Wairakei Terraces: Soak in natural hot pools framed by Māori carving and cascading thermal terraces.
  • Tongariro Alpine Crossing: A dramatic one-day trek across volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, and ancient peaks.

Things to Do

  • Take a jetboat to Huka Falls: Zoom within metres of the roaring cascade for an adrenaline rush like no other.
  • Trout fishing on Lake Taupō: Cast off from a charter boat or riverside spot and try your luck with world-famous rainbow trout.
  • Cycle the Great Lake Trail: A scenic mountain biking route that hugs the edge of the lake with panoramic views.
  • Raft the Tongariro River: Navigate pristine wilderness with expert guides and thrilling rapids.
  • Wander Craters of the Moon: An easy loop walk through steaming geothermal vents and bubbling earth.
  • Ski Mt Ruapehu in winter: Hit the slopes just a short drive from Taupō during ski season.

“Legend says Lake Taupō is the beating heart of a great volcano — you can feel its pulse in every hot spring and waterfall.”

Travel Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: December to March for summer lake activities; June to September for snow sports on Ruapehu.
  • Getting There: Taupō Airport connects with Auckland and Wellington; 3.5 hrs by car from Auckland.
  • Getting Around: A car is ideal to explore Taupō’s lakefront, geothermal parks and surrounding hikes.
  • Thermal Tip: Always stick to marked trails in geothermal zones – the earth is thinner than it looks!

Explore Nearby

  • Turangi – A fly-fishing hub and base for Tongariro hikes and river rafting.
  • Orakei Korako – A hidden geothermal gem with colourful terraces and steaming caves.
  • Tokaanu – A quiet village with thermal pools and a lakeside heritage walk.