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Family friendly activities in Taupō

Getting out into nature and adventuring is an essential part of life for kids growing up in New Zealand. Taupō's incredible scenery and wide range of family-friendly activities are what have made it a favourite holiday spot for New Zealanders for decades.

From lazy summers spent swimming, boating and fishing on the lake bays, to a pilgrimage to Happy Valley at Whakapapa Ski Area to learn to ski or have a sled, it’s an essential part of many Kiwis’ happiest childhood memories.

Camping, thermal park fun, family hikes and bike rides through native bush, mini-golf, horse treks, the Huka Prawn Park, family restaurants, boat cruises, farm parks, playgrounds and natural wonders – there’s an endless list of things to do and places to go to keep everyone in the family having fun.

Family friendly things to do in Taupō

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  • Hiking & walking trails

    Huka Falls Lookout Walk

    Take a scenic walk along the banks of the Waikato River, or simply explore the many lookout points at Huka Falls, one of the most visited natural attractions in New Zealand - these short, easy walks are great for kids.

  • Family friendly

    Spa Park - Taupo Disc Golf Course

    Come for a throw at the beautiful Spa Park Disc Golf Course! Choose between the Blue 9-hole course for family fun or challenge yourself on the world-class Red 18-hole course.

  • Horse treks

    Enchanted Forest Horse Ride - Korohe Horse Treks

    Ride through the Enchanted Forest and discover Santa's hideout with your horse.

    $95
  • Boat cruises

    Taxicat Adventures - Western Bays - Chasing Waterfalls

    Are you a fan of waterfalls? We certainly are! Join us to explore the stunning Northern end of the hidden Western Bays of Lake Taupō on one of our delightful Western Bay Chasing Waterfalls cruises.

    $145
  • 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
  • Biking trails

    Craters Mountain Bike Park

    Craters MTB Park is a purpose-built mountain bike park located only a short distance from Taupō town, with trails ranging from children’s entry-level to technical cross-country and downhill trails.

  • Boat cruises

    Ernest Kemp Scenic Cruises - Maori Rock Carvings

    Daily scenic cruises to the Maori Rock Carvings onboard the Ernest Kemp, a replica steamboat. Ernest Kemp cruises daily all year round - four times during summer and twice in winter. Enjoy stunning Lake Taupo and the carvings on this 2 hour cruise.

    $50 - $55 Book now
  • Fishing – Fresh Water

    Tongariro National Trout Centre

    Discover a unique freshwater destination where nature and exploration come together. Explore our museum, native freshwater aquarium and historic hatchery, feed wild trout, and enjoy seasonal Kids' Fishing Experiences on selected NZ school holidays.

    $22
  • Arts & crafts

    Lava Glass Glassblowing Studio Tour

    Lava Glass is the playground of Lynden Over, one of New Zealand's leading glass artists. In his studio, you get the opportunity to watch him and resident artists at work. Lava Glass is the first certified net carbon zero glass studio in the world.

    $12.50
  • Theme & leisure parks

    Turangi Climbing Gym

    Turangi Climbing Gym is fun for the whole family and experience levels! With top ropes, lead climbing and bouldering problems which are always changing, you can spend plenty of time here, and know each time you come there will be a new challenge.

    $15 - $20
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