Active adventures in Taupō
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From peaks to rapids: Adventure starts here

Whether you are chasing snow, seeking speed, or craving high-altitude views, Taupō delivers. With water, wilderness, and wild energy, this is where active adventurers find their perfect flow.

Set your pace and choose your path - ski down volcanic slopes, ride forest trails, reel in a trout, or jet-boat through river canyons. Taupō is built for movement, made for memory-making, and perfect for sharing with someone special. Adventure here is not about ticking boxes; it is about choosing your own version of freedom and living it fully.

Taupō through the lens: a visual journey

See the pulse of Taupō through every shot - spray flying from a jet boat, snow lifting under skis, wheels spinning on mountain trails. The camera captures more than movement; it reveals moments of bravery, joy, and connection in the great outdoors.

Active adventures in Taupō — secret gems, magic and mysteries

Where every trail, rapid, and ridgeline invites freedom, challenge, and joy. Nature sets the pace, and each moment moves you in new ways.

Plan your trip with active adventures

Thinking of biking volcanic trails or hiking across alpine ridges? Taupō makes it easy to turn that dream into a plan. Pack your sense of adventure and let the natural playground of Taupō lead the way.

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  • Biking trails

    The Waipapa Trail

    Enjoy narrow forest trails, see historic dam foundations, cross wetland boardwalks, and finish at Waipapa Power Station, featuring technical paths, steep sections, and stunning views of sandstone cliffs and the river. Ideal for adventurous riders seeking a challenging and scenic route.

  • Bungy

    The Big Splash

    The Big Splash is about being wet in the summer and cool in the winter, by doing a wicked combination of bungy jumping and rafting. With two locally owned and operated companies, we offer an action-packed day, that's on the wild side.

    $395 Book now
  • Ski & snowboard

    Whakapapa Ski Area

    Whakapapa is a world-class adventure playground located on the northern slopes of Mt Ruapehu, boasting the countries premier beginner facility, Happy Valley. Terrain is formed by solidified lava making for some of the most exhilarating skiing and snowboarding New Zealand has to offer. Explore everything from cruisy groomers to exhilarating chutes, bumps and drops, made all the more exciting by the natural volcanic terrain.

  • Biking trails

    Waihora Link

    Ride amongst vast stands of Kamahi, through volcanic rock formations and past the intriguing Echo Rock before you start to descend down the Kotukutuku Stream.

  • Hiking & walking trails

    Kawakawa Section

    The Kawakawa Section of the Great Lake Trails is made up of the K2K Trail, Orakau Trail, and Otaketake Trail.

  • Bungy

    AJ Hackett Bungy Taupo

    New Zealand's highest cliff-top Bungy Jump - located 47 metres (154 feet) above the Waikato River, check out the stunning views before taking the plunge into or towards the crystal clear waters below.

    $275 Book now
  • Biking trails

    Timber Trail

    The 85km long Timber Trail is a unique mountain bike ride across ancestral Maori lands, taking you deep into the ancient Pureora Forest Park in New Zealand's central North Island.

  • Biking trails

    River Side Trail

    The River Side Trail in Taupō is a scenic, two-way path along the Waikato River between Control Gates Bridge and Spa Thermal Park. Ideal for all ages, it offers gentle terrain, stunning river views, and lush native bush. The trail connects to the Rotary Ride and Huka Trails, passes Cherry Island and River Side Reserve, and climbs behind Taupo Bungy, ending at Spa Thermal Park.

  • Off-road driving

    Moto Track and Trail NZ

    Our vision is to give you the best motocross and trail riding experience in the Central North Island. We are based in Taupo, and our location is close to 8 MX and 3 trail riding tracks, which are considered to be some of the best tracks in NZ.

    $1,495 - $1,995
  • Rafting

    Tongariro Family Fun - Rafting New Zealand

    Splash, crash, swim & laugh, this trip is all about having fun, while travelling through the beautiful lower reaches of the Tongariro River. A great journey for families with young children our more senior of citizens & non English speaking visitors.

    $149 Book now
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Looking for other experiences

  • Relax and Unwind

    Slip into a softer rhythm in the Taupō region. From geothermal pools to gourmet plates, luxe stays to lakeview strolls - this is your invitation to relax, recharge and reconnect simply..

    More info 
  • Immerse in nature

    Feel nature's calm in Taupō. From forest walks to geothermal wonders, scenic lakeshores - this is a place where every step brings you closer to something extraordinary.

    More info 
  • Connect with others

    Taupō brings people together across ages, interests, and budgets. From festivals to trails, it is a region full of shared experiences that spark joy, connection, and plenty of stories to take home.

    More info 

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  1. Home
  2. Discover
  3. Highlights
  4. Active Adventure