Top 25 rainy day experiences in Taupo

1. Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs

Enjoy two mineral pools, three hydroslides, children’s water play-ground, private pools and day spa.

2. Maori rock carvings

Cruise, sail or kayak to this extraordinary contemporary artwork towering 14m above Lake Taupo. Daily trips available.

3. Indoor rock climbing

Discover climbing at The Edge Indoor Rock Wall in Taupo town or Turangi Climbing Gym in Turangi. Both cater for beginners through to advanced climbers.

4. Huka Honey Hive

View bees, taste honey, mead and ice cream, take a guided tour and be tempted by an impressive array of 100% pure NZ honey and unique gifts.

5. Volcanic Activity Centre

Discover how epic forces of volcanoes, earthquakes and geothermal activity have shaped, and continue to shape, this land. Located inside Turangi i-SITE.

6. Huka Falls River Cruise

Experience the thunder of the Huka Falls close-up onboard a purpose-built riverboat. Scheduled daily cruises, rain or shine.

7. Tokaanu Thermal Pools

Relax in the thermal and therapeutic waters from the Tokaanu Stream. Outdoor and private pools available. Perfect for the whole family.

8. Taupo Museum

Discover the heritage of local iwi Ngāti Tūwharetoa, view a 15m waka crafted from a single log, discover changing exhibitions and shop for unique gifts.

9. Starlight Cinema Centre

This locally owned cinema complex features five picture theatres and a quaint lounge cinema. Check online for session times.

10. Turangi Turtle Pools

Indoor pool complex featuring four heated pools with a 25m lane pool, learners and toddlers’ pools and new aquatic climbing wall.

11. Mind Junction

Home to a myriad of fun and interactive activities including a giant maze, LEGO display, discovery centre and mini golf. Suitable for all ages.

12. Lava Glass

Watch live glassblowing by award-winning glass artist Lynden Over, wander through the gallery and sculpture garden, and enjoy the on-site cafe.

13. Trout fishing charters

Discover beautiful bays and secret fishing spots with your own private fishing tour on Lake Taupo. No experience necessary.

14. Crafty Trout Brewing Co

This quirky Austrian-themed Bier Kafe and brewery offers tours, beer tastings, meals and giftware shop.

15. AJ Hackett Taupo Bungy and Swing

Leap from the only cliff-top bungy in the country or try the swing, solo or tandem above the aquamarine waters of the Waikato River.

16. Wairakei Terraces and Thermal Health Spa

Bathe in mineral and silica enriched thermal pools uniquely situated below magnificent silica terraces and waterfall. Adults only.

17. Shop til you drop

Explore boutique shopping in Taupo’s town centre. Covered footpaths with designer boutiques, specialty shops, outdoor stores, jewellers and more.

18. Public libraries

Our region’s libraries run holiday activities for kids, have free Wi-Fi access and books can be borrowed by out of town visitors.

19. Kayaking adventures

Explore Lake Taupo’s hidden bays on a guided adventure with Canoe and Kayak or Taupo Kayaking Adventures (motorised kayaks available).

20. AC Baths Hot Pools

The AC Baths is a thermally heated, all-weather, family friendly pool complex with cafe and hydroslides.

21. Shooters Golf Range

Master your swing in one of the 19 covered driving range bays. Archery available for ages 10+ and Bubble Soccer available by appointment.

22. Relax at a day spa

Soothe your body and soul with a massage, facial or beauty treatment at one of the many luxurious and award-winning beauty salons and day spas.

23. Eat in an airplane

Visit the 'Worlds Coolest McDonald’s', and dine inside a decommissioned DC3 plane that is part of the store. You can even view the cockpit!

24. Taharepa Baths

Dip your toes in an area of natural geothermal activity at Taharepa Reserve or dig in the sand to create small hot pools.

25. Experience Lake Taupo with Doughboats

Pack your picnic basket, bottle of wine or cheeseboard, and head out on Lake Taupo in your own eco-friendly donut boat. The electric engine boats are covered with open sides, seat up to six and are very easy to use, cruising up to five knots.