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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  • Hiking & walking trails

    Kiko Loop Track

    This short loop track is a great way for walkers and mountain bikers to experience the variety of nature in the Kaimanawa Forest Park. Highlights include stunning podocarp forest and impressive views of Lake Taupō.

  • Biking trails

    Tongariro River Trail

    Explore the Tongariro River Trail in Turangi, offering gentle riverside rides and stunning native bush. Cross a scenic swing bridge and stop at the Tongariro National Trout Centre for a picnic and learning experience, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Perfect for the whole family.

  • Custom transfers

    Backyard Tours - Turangi to Whakapapa Snow fields

    Let's go to the heart of the Tongariro National Park Whakapapa round trip transport transfer from Turangi to have fun in the snow. Book now.

    $100
  • Cycling & Mountain Biking

    FourB - Timber Trail All Inclusive Package

    Timber Trail 2-day all inclusive package. One night in Taupō, one night in the Timber Trail Lodge, meals and luggage transfers ex Taupō.

    $649 - $799 Book now
  • Jet boating

    Rapids Jet

    Experience real white water jet boating. Rapids Jet is a fun, safe & exhilarating experience which takes you to the Aratiatia Rapids, through the narrowest canyon on the Waikato to the Nga Awa Purua Rapids where The Hobbit scenes were filmed.

    $155 Book now
  • Activities & tours

    Sky Waka, Mt Ruapehu

    Ride New Zealand's most unique gondola, high above the UNESCO world-heritage-listed mountain area. For wild adventure, for supreme beauty, and for an unforgettable dining experience.

    $54 Book now
  • Rafting

    H2-Ohh Combo - Hukafalls Jet & Whitewater Rafting

    White water adventure that’s splashtastic. Dash to the base of the spectacular Huka Falls onboard a twin engine V6 jet boat. Then carry on your adventure with Whitewater rafting.

    $284 Book now
  • Scenic flights

    Fly n Raft Combo - Taupo's Float Plane & Whitewater Rafting

    Enjoy an exciting yet scenic 20 minute flight to the Southern end of Lake Taupo. Land and be picked up for a Whitewater Rafting adventure with Tongariro River Rafting. Return transport to your Taupo accommodation included.

    $545.99 - $546
  • Rafting

    Tongariro River Rafting

    Welcome to Tongariro River Rafting: we’re a fun, friendly, family-owned company offering guided Tongariro River experiences from our awesome home base in Turangi. For down-to-earth Kiwi backcountry fun, we can’t be beat.

    $149 - $1,699 Book now
  • Biking trails

    Great Lake Pathway (Lion's Walk)

    Voted New Zealand's Favourite Urban Ride in 2017, the Great Lake Pathway (Lion's Walk) is perfectly suited for families and offers spectacular views across Lake Taupo to the snow-capped peaks of Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Ruapehu.

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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
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