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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

    Lake Rotopounamu

    Nestled on the side of Mt Pihanga, Lake Rotopounamu (‘greenstone lake’) is a special favourite of tree lovers and birdwatchers.

  • Hiking & walking trails

    Silica Rapids

    Silica Rapids is a short easy walk in the UNESCO dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park.

  • Hiking & walking trails

    Tawhai Falls

    This short easy walk in the Tongariro National Park is accessible on foot from Whakapapa Village or a short drive to the start of the track.

  • Scenic attraction

    Aratiatia Rapids

    Aratiatia Rapids is one of the most popular natural attractions in the North Island. Thousands of litres of water are released from the Aratiatia Dam creating a spectacular flow of water through a narrow gorge.

  • Volcanic/Geothermal

    Orakei Korako Cave & Geothermal Park

    Orakei Korako 'The Place of Adorning' - a spectacular Geothermal attraction. Lonely Planet Travellers Guide writes: “Orakei Korako is arguably the best thermal area left in New Zealand".

    $57 Book now
  • 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
  • Geothermal walks

    Tokaanu Thermal Walk

    See steaming hot mineral pools and spluttering mud pools on this short, easy walk.

  • Hiking & walking trails

    Opepe Scenic and Historic Reserve

    Wander among ancient towering trees and discover relics of the area's fascinating pioneering history, only a short drive from Taupō.

  • Boat cruises

    Venture Beyond - Chasing Waterfalls 3.5 Hour Adventurer

    Let us connect you to the hidden treasures that are the Western Bays of Lake Taupō. Towering cliffs, hidden ravines, waterfalls and sandy bays are a snapshot of what your adventure might look like with Venture Beyond. Departing Kinloch daily.

    $272 Book now
  • Theme & leisure parks

    Mind Junction

    All day, all weather activity park. ​A must see Taupo attraction. Bring along the family and get lost in our over 2m high giant maze, confuse yourself in the Science Discovery Centre, marvel at the LEGO display, get in a round of mini golf and more.

    $8 - $40
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