Top 10 insta-worthy spots in Taupō

1. HUKA FALLS

Bright blue, raging, and guaranteed to seal the shot. Get the dramatic long-exposure waterfall snap or go all-in with an action-packed jet boat selfie that creeps up close to the falls. Huka Falls is more than a thunderous waterfall, it’s a cultural right of passage, and a mandatory stop for every Taupō visit.

2. MĀORI ROCK CARVINGS

10-meter-high rock art that climbs out of Lake Taupō—and only reachable by water. Whether you’re kayaking, sailing, or jet skiing in, this one's also a must-shoot, especially at sunrise when the carvings pop with that morning light. Any serious social shot chaser can’t skip this one.

3. OTUMUHEKE HOT SPRINGS

Natural hot pools on the edge of the Waikato River? Yes, please. This spot is made for moody, misty shots of geothermal waters mixing with the cool river—add a coffee cup for the ultimate ‘morning vibes’ flex.

4. ACACIA BAY LOOKOUT

For a lit panoramic shot of Lake Taupō, Acacia Bay Lookout delivers unreal 360° vistas—mountains, water, and those stunning, wide-open Central Plateau skies!

Pro tip: get up here for sunset hues that hit that provide filters you won’t find in the app.

5. SPA THERMAL PARK SWING

Ever wanted to swing over a steaming geothermal river? Some might call this Taupō’s ‘most playful Insta spot’ and they’re probably right. Add it to your shot list, it’s inside Spa Thermal Park—where you can literally snap, swing, and soak all in one spot.

6. TAUPŌ BUNGY & CLIFF SWING

Scared of heights? Scroll on by. If you’re after the ultimate mid-air ‘scream shot’, throwing yourself off New Zealand’s highest cliff-top bungy will do the trick. Bonus points for a slow-mo reel of that freefall. 3-2-1-Instaaaaaaaa!

7. KINLOCH BEACH

Need white sand, clear blue water, and peaceful vibes? Kinloch Beach is the hidden gem where you’ll get that tropical-lake aesthetic—without the crowds, only a 20 minute drive from central Taupō Town. Meet you there!

8. GREAT LAKE PATHWAY (LION’S WALK)

If you’re after Lake Taupō’s greatest hits, this waterfront walk has them all: mirror-like reflections, mountain views, and dreamy boardwalks stretching over the water. Perfect for that "just taking a casual stroll" snap accompanied with a deep and meaningful life quote.

9. WAI-O-TAPU THERMAL WONDERLAND

Neon green lakes? Bubbling mud pools? A geyser that seems to erupt on command? Wai-O-Tapu is straight-up alien-looking and will give your feed an otherworldly vibe. The perfect shot to contrast the other goodness on offer in Taupō.

10. WAITAHANUI STREAM

Glass-like reflections, lush native bush, and world-class fly fishing action. Whether you’re capturing the misty morning light or the sheer serenity of this legendary trout stream, it’s a dream setting for a peaceful, nature-driven shot. Sneaky pro tip: This may well be a perfect place to pop the question for nature lovers.

About 5-7 mins into the walk there’s a bend in the stream, under the cliffs that’s magical.

FOR THE EXTRA COMMITTED: WORK FOR THE SHOT

1. Morning Climb up Mount Tauhara: A steep but rewarding sunrise hike with unimpeded views over Taupō and beyond. The golden hour payoff? Unreal. Don’t forget the scroggin.

2. Sunrise at Rotopounamu Track: A hidden emerald-green lake, totally still at dawn, surrounded by
ancient native bush. Pure magic for that thumb-stopping shot.

3. Kayaking to a Secret Cove: Paddle out beyond the usual tourist spots and find your own private slice of paradise on the lake’s shoreline. The committed get the treats!