15 GREAT Things to Do in Taupo, New Zealand
If you’re looking for a peaceful, laidback town near water and outdoor activities, then Taupo is the place for you. Known to be a popular Kiwi retirement area, Taupo offers an unhurried pace and tranquil ambiance, making it ideal for visitors seeking a slower way of life. The nightlife may not be the most popping, but the town compensates with a plethora of outdoor activities, friendly people, and great scenery. It’s close to some of the most famous attractions in New Zealand, including the coolest McDonald’s in the world! If this town sounds right for you, then here are some amazing things to do in Taupo, New Zealand that you can’t miss.
Natural Wonders
Taupo has so much amazing nature surrounding it. You have the great Lake Taupo, roaring rapids of Huka Falls, and forest and mountains galore. There’s so much great nature to see, and you can’t miss it!
See Huka Falls
This is the number one natural attraction you have to see in Taupo. Honestly, in the North Island of New Zealand, too. Located just on the town’s outskirts, Huka Falls is an incredibly fast and powerful waterfall where the Waikato River narrows abruptly. The falls are famous because the water flows at a rate that could fill an Olympic sized pool in 11 seconds. If that doesn’t seem that powerful, just imagine water from a fire hose being pushed through a small nozzle! It’s also famous for its blue water, due to extreme incorporation of air into the water, turning it a frosty and electric blue.
Pictures and videos don’t do it justice. It’s crazy blue and crazy fast. You can easily get here by car or tour bus.
Tip: There’s a bridge across a section of the river you can stand on and feel the rushing air and water beneath your feet. Then, walk along the side of the river to reach the actual falls, where you’ll hear thunder-like sounds emanating from the water crashing down.
Relax at Lake Taupo
Lake Taupo is the largest lake in New Zealand, measuring 30 km wide and 40 km long, with a surface area of 606 sq km. That’s as large as the entire country of Singapore! Lake Taupo is also the largest freshwater lake in Australasia/Oceania. The lake formed from a crater of one of the largest volcanic eruptions on Earth within the last 5000 years. Taupo sits on the Northeast corner of the lake, facing Tapuaeharuru Bay.
A huge chunk of Taupo’s lake-facing edge is all grass and hugged by Lake Terrace Road. You can walk, run, and relax at the shores along a large strip. There are many restaurants, cafes, and boutiques along this road as well. It’s a great area to spend an afternoon or evening, sitting and admiring the lake’s tranquility. Just left of central Taupo is the marina, which houses sailboats and house boats, is the perfect place to watch sunset. For a more serene place to enjoy the lake, consider visiting any one of the bays of Lake Taupo: Acacia Bay, Two Mile Bay, Whatkaipo Bay, and more.
Tip: Don’t miss the Love Taupo sign near the Taupo Museum. For a more local attraction, try your hand at the Lake Taupo Hole in One Challenge. How it works: There’s a floating golf hole just off the lake terrace and you pay $1 NZD per hit. If you get the ball into the floating target, you win $10,000 NZD. Honestly, it’s a genius idea and is an affordable way to have some fun!
Visit Tongariro National Park
Tongariro National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located an hour by car Southwest of Taupo. It’s a national park with a lot of historical significance and heritage. It’s New Zealand’s oldest national park and the fourth established national park in the world. It is one of three World Heritage sites in New Zealand and the first to have dual World Heritage status. Tongariro’s beauty awards it many accolades. It’s known for its diverse scenery and ever-changing weather: large lakes, even-larger volcanoes, waterfalls, forest, bush, blue skies, and rocky terrain.
It also has several important Maori cultural sites and 21 walking tracks ranging in difficulty. The most famous walking track is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, which is voted the best day hike to do in New Zealand. You trek through three volcanoes and see a beautiful emerald lake. I talk about it in a later section—it’s too good to not be its own section. But if you’re in Taupo, you definitely need to check out this amazing park that will make you feel like you’re exploring the wilderness.
Tongariro National Park Location
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Often in smaller towns, you make your own entertainment, and Taupo is full of outdoor activities that keeps you occupied and healthy. With access to mountain, water, and land, there are numerous activities you can do while you’re here. In fact, Taupo is known for its myriad outdoor activities that are both fun and exciting.
Skydiving over Taupo
Looking for a once in a lifetime experience? Go skydiving in Taupo! It’s one of the best places in New Zealand to skydive. Taupo’s topography is unique, with geothermal activity, mountains, the lake, and trees, the scenery from above is incredible. And who doesn’t want to skydive over the biggest lake in New Zealand? Just imagine the photos of you skydiving over a beautiful, clear, blue body of water surrounded by nature. The biggest hurdle is getting over the fear of jumping out of the airplane, haha. You fall from 15,000 feet up in the air, but if you’re even more daring, you can jump from a 16,500 feet airplane, instead.
For many of the skydiving operators, they offer different packages depending on what you want. Many offer a content package, meaning someone will jump with you and help record your experience with a GoPro. You’ll get photos, a video, and some merch to share that you, indeed, jumped out of an airplane. And if you’re worried about safety, the dive is really safe, and the instructors are extremely reassuring and calm.
Tip: The max weight for a jumper is 100kg or about 220 pounds. This is for safety reasons! Also, track the weather! New Zealand weather changes rapidly, but trust that your tandem divers have your safety prioritized at all cost (and weather).
Bungee Jumping in Taupo
If skydiving is not your cup of tea, there’s a level down: bungee jumping! Although you are still free-falling for a little bit, there’s the added security in knowing you are tied to something and that you are falling not so high above. Still, bungee jumping is a heart-pounding activity that has become synonymous with adventure in New Zealand. You can choose to jump, run, dive, or walk off the platform, so you can make it your own.
The best place to go in Taupo is AJ Packett’s Bungy, where you jump off a platform into the stunning Waikato River. If you go down enough, you’ll be able to touch the water!
Tip: If you have a friend or family member going, there’s a viewing platform just to the left of the jumping platform. You’ll grab great videos, photos, and one heck of a show!
Go on a Bike Ride on Biking Trails
The Waikato River is a long, winding river that feeds into Lake Taupo. It’s known for its windy path, and surrounded by forest on both sides. It also runs downstream, meaning there are slopes along it. As a result, the river is the perfect place for mountain biking. There are numerous trails you can bike on, but the most popular spot is the Craters Mountain Bike Park, which has dedicated biking trails labeled by difficulty. It’s perfect for those learning about biking, families, and even seasoned experts who are looking for a nice ride.
There are also more casual bike paths around the city, including in parks and small reserves. You can even bike along the waterfront or the marina, and go all the way down the east and west sides of the lake. You can rent bikes anywhere in downtown Taupo; there are multiple bike rental shops.
Tip: If you love biking, don’t miss the huge bicycle off the side of Wairakei Drive.
Go on a Hike
Taupo has an abundance of walking trails and areas, within a quick 15 minutes drive. Although Tongariro National Park is the must for hiking, if you have limited time, check out some hiking trails or walking tracks in the Taupo area. A popular local walking track is Rangatira Point, which takes you up a small hill and spits you out at a swimming pool that overlooks the lake. It’s shady, well kept, and an overall easy track to do. It takes about 45 minutes to walk.
Another popular hike in Taupo is Mount Tauhara, just east of Taupo, that takes you up the mount and to a stunning view of Taupo, Lake Taupo, the Bay of Plenty, and Tongariro. You start at the Mount Taupo Car Park and follow the trail up the hill. It takes a little more than an hour to get to the top, and an hour to get back to the car park. The vista at top is absolutely stunning, and you’ll want to take your time soaking in the views. The view is best at the rocks near the ridge!
Tip: There are no restrooms here, so go beforehand. Also, the path is relatively shady, but if it’s a hot day, go early to avoid the heat. However, take something warm with you to wear at the top, as it can get cold and windy even on warm days.
Sail on Lake Taupo and See Ngatoroirangi
What better way to enjoy Lake Taupo than riding a sailboat in it? You can either rent sailboats or go on a guided tour around the lake. There are sailing experiences that include drinks, dinner, and more. Sailing on Lake Taupo is deeply rooted in Maori heritage, where traditional waka (canoes) crossed back and forth, migrating from one place to another. Sailing on Lake Taupo is not only relaxing, but also enjoyable, as you appreciate the surrounding landscapes.
It’s also one of the only ways you can see the Ngatoroirangi Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings on the edge of Lake Taupo, which I talk about later on.
Tip: Dress warm! It can get quite windy on the lake, so bring a light windbreaker or jacket.
Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Trek one of New Zealand’s most iconic hikes, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, for an unforgettable adventure through the stunning landscapes of Tongariro National Park. This challenging trek traverses three volcanoes, volcanic craters, multiple green and blue lakes, and unique alpine terrain. The crossing has international acclaim from hikers worldwide for its unparalleled beauty. The crossing is also famous for Mount Ngauruhoe, which is Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings movie franchise. It also is intertwined with Maori mythology, in which local tribes or iwi consider the mountains and mountaintops sacred.
I decided to go on this hike with a couple days’ notice, and it was the best decision I made on my trip of the North Island. It’s the best hike I have ever been on, and I would do it all over again. It’s a long, one-way hike, which takes about 7 hours to complete. There are extremely challenging parts to this hike, so you should be in good physical condition before attempting this hike. If you want to hike this crossing, read about my experience here. I go in depth about the crossing, how it was like for me, and tips on how you can do it, too!
Tongariro Alpine Crossing Location
Geothermal Areas
Taupo sits on the Taupo volcanic zone, which starts from Tongariro National Park to White Island (Whakaari) in the North. Similar to its sibling Rotorua, you’ll find amazing geothermal pools, hot springs, and more. From the surreal landscapes of Orakei Korako Geothermal Park to the soothing retreats of Wairakei Terraces and Spa Thermal Park, this section promises an immersive journey through the Earth’s captivating geothermal forces.
Visit Orakei Korako Geothermal Park
This expansive park, known as “The Hidden Valley,” features a diverse range of geothermal phenomena, including silica terraces, bubbling mud pools. It’s most famous for some of the largest and most amazing silica terraces in the world, including the iconic Artist’s Palette. The silica terraces have vibrant mineral hues and are a sight to see. It’s also known for the thermal Ruatapu Cave, which is 36m deep into volcanic rock and ends with the Pool of Mirrors hot pool. It also has the most amount of active geysers in New Zealand!
The Hidden Valley is a 25 minute drive north of Taupo, and adult entry is $47 NZD. The park is only accessible by ferry, which is included in the admission ticket. Inside, you explore on a self-guided tour on a boardwalk track that takes about 1-2 hours to complete. It’s a pretty leisure walk, and most people can complete it! There’s a visitor and a cafe inside, too. Dogs are also allowed.
Tip: There are no bathrooms in the park, only at the visitor’s center and on the main land area. So make sure to go before you walk!
Orakei Korako Geothermal Park Location
Visit Wairakei Terraces
With all mud and silica waters found in New Zealand geothermal regions, they have long standing history. For centuries, the Māori have used them for bathing, healing and wellness. To continue that tradition, Wairakei Terraces is a geothermal spa in Taupo where you can bathe in natural silica pool terraces, formed by silica-rich water deposits. As a result, there are cascading pools with varying temperatures. In addition to silica pools, Wairakei Terraces also offers a wellness and spa experience. This place combines the therapeutic benefits of geothermal bathing with the stunning surroundings of native flora, making it a popular destination for wellness seekers.
Tip: If you don’t want to bathe but want to see the silica pools up close, Wairakei Terraces offers a terrace walk for $15 NZD per adult. You can also rent towels and robes here if you don’t have one on you.
Soak in Spa Thermal Park
On the outskirts of downtown Taupo is a local geothermal experience that is free! However, don’t expect hot temperatures, as the water is more warm than hot. However, it’s open to the public and free, so it’s perfect for a casual dip. It’s incredibly scenic, with blue waters and nature all around. There is also a 40 minute walking track that leads to Huka Falls. If you’re on a time crunch, then this is a good option to get a glimpse of the hot springs and pools. You get to the car park, then make your trek down to the pools and river. There are also changing rooms and even a cafe you can enjoy!
Tip: The water is warmest near the waterfall, and temperatures may fluctuate between seasons.
Craters of the Moon Geothermal Walk
For a budget geothermal walk, Craters of the Moon is a great option. It’s near Huka Falls and offers a 45 minute walking track around craters, bubbling mud, and steam vents. This area sprang up in the 1950’s as a consequence of the nearby power station withdrawing hot water underground. Water levels dropped in the deep reservoir, leading to remaining water boiling more violently, producing more steam, releasing in this area.
Admission is $10 NZD per adult and is a self-guided walk. You walk on elevated paved boardwalks that offer great views of the area. It’s a great way to see the geothermal topography inexpensively, and a nice way to kill time in Taupo.
Tip: There is no shade here, so go on a day that is colder, especially since the steam vents produce heat.
Cultural and Historical Attractions
Visit the Taupo Museum
Taupo Museum is a small, local history museum of Taupo. You’ll find a mix of Maori and European settlement history of the region, as well as information about the geothermal activity and its fishing history. You’ll also find the Maori legend of Ruamoku and the creation of the Taupo volcanic zone. But, probably most importantly, you’ll find authentic Maori carvings, on loan from locals, and a Maori meeting house inside. There’s also usually a photographic exhibition with a rotating selection.
Although small in comparison to other museums, Taupo Museum is the perfect place for an in-depth dive into Taupo’s history. This is the perfect place to start your trip and learn about the town, bringing context to all your next experiences. It’s also very inexpensive, at $5 NZD per adult.
Tip: Don’t miss the award-winning Ora garden outside!
Sail to Ngatoroirangi Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings
Accessible only by boat, these larger-than-life carvings tell tales of Maori legends and traditions. The carving is a 14 meter high carving of Ngatoroirangi, a Maori leader who guided the Te Arawa tribes from Polynesia to New Zealand. Master carver, Matahi Brightwell, carved this face into stone in the 1970’s and it has since become one of the most recognizable tourist attractions in the North Island. You can also get here by kayaking, boating, or jet-skiing—any form of water transportation, really.
This is probably the largest Maori rock carving you’ll find in New Zealand. Although contemporary, it’s masterfully done and authentic to the culture. If you’re sailing on Taupo, make sure your boat or tour stops here!
Visit Aratiatia Dam and Rapids
Constructed in the 1960s, the Mercury company built the Aratiata Power Station and constructed Aratiatia Dam as a way to make hydroelectric power, contributing to New Zealand’s broader energy network. Aratiatia Power station is the first hydroelectric power station of nine on the Waikato River, New Zealand’s longest river. Before the dam, locals admired the Aratiata rapids on this part of the river for its tiered structure. Its name derives from the appearance, where “Aratiatia” means “stairway of Tia” after Tia, a legendary Maori explorer.
However, the dam’s construction meant that the rapids would be no more. Luckily, the company opens the dam 3-4 times a day for visitors to enjoy the roaring rapids like before. The hours are:
Summer (Oct to March): 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 4:00 PM
Winter (Apr to Sep): 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 2:00 PM
Tip: The viewing platform offers a prime vantage point, while boat tours provide an up-close perspective.
Dining and Local Cuisine
Prepare to try fresh trout (the local specialty) and the world’s coolest McDonald’s! Taupo’s culinary scene is great, with quaint cafes to upscale restaurants, the town caters to a range of tastes. You’ll find a variety of cuisines and there’s something for everybody.
Freshwater Cuisine: Trout and More
Lake Taupo’s cool, clear, and nutrient-rich waters provide an ideal habitat for trout, particularly rainbow and brown trout. These species were introduced to New Zealand waters in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and Lake Taupo quickly became a thriving environment for them. There’s aeven a Great Lake Taupo Trout Fishing Tournament held here! Renowned for its exceptional taste and texture, locally caught trout is a highlight on many menus. Whether it’s smoked, grilled, or expertly prepared in various dishes, savoring trout is a must for those seeking an authentic taste of Taupo’s freshwater bounty. Any modern or local New Zealand cuisine restaurant will serve it. Look on the menu for “fresh, locally caught fish” or “local trout”!
Visit the World’s Coolest McDonald’s
Eat your Big Mac inside a de-comissioned DC-3 airplane. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the World’s Coolest McDonald’s in Taupo. Housed inside a decommissioned DC3 plane, this McDonald’s is a must visit, even for non-McDonald eaters and fans. The airplane was a passenger plane that got decommissioned and used as a promotional prop in the parking lot of a local car dealership, the Aeroplane Car Company. In 1990, McDonald’s bought the land to franchise, and the airplane came with it. McDonald’s added seats and tables inside so you can enjoy your meal inside a real airplane.
You can see the McDonald’s airplane while driving down the main road, and it’s huge! You order your meal inside the main building and walk up a flight of stairs and into the aircraft. Pick a seat and enjoy your meal while staring out the airplane window—just thousands of feet closer to the ground.
World’s Coolest McDonald’s Location
Put These Things to Do in Taupo in Your Itinerary
As you travel to Taupo, you’ll find so many things to do in and near the town. From geothermal parks, roaring rivers and rapids, stunning nature, cool cultural attractions, and a cool McDonald’s. Taupo is a town you must visit, especially if you’re looking for a slower pace of life and a relaxing stop on your trip through New Zealand. You’re in close proximity to multiple outdoor nature experiences, from biking, walking, hiking, boating, and soaking. You’ll feel rejuvenated and refreshed, ready to take on the rest of the country, or return back home. I absolutely adore the small town vibes of Taupo, and it was the perfect second to last stop of my tour in New Zealand. I hope you have just as great of a time. Happy travels!
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