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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

    Waikato River Walking Track

    This shared-use track starts at the Huka Falls carpark and ends at Otupo Flat.

  • 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.

  • Kayaking

    Kayak the Mighty Waikato River with Canoe & Kayak - Canoe and Kayak Taupō

    Let Canoe & Kayak pilot your exploration of the crystal clear waters of New Zealand's longest river, the mighty Waikato, on a 2 hour guided trip. This stunning tour runs daily and is perfect for the whole family.

    $90 Book now
  • Boat cruises

    Ernest Kemp Scenic Cruises - Lake Taupō, Daily Māori Rock Carvings Cruises

    Daily scenic cruises to the Māori Rock Carvings, Mine Bay. Ernest Kemp cruises daily, year round. Only accessible by water the Maori Rock carvings are a 'must do' Taupō activity. Relaxing 1.5 & 2 Hour cruises over crystal clear waters of Lake Taupō.

    $55 - $59 Book now
  • Taupō town

    #LoveTaupō lettering

    Do you love Taupō? Located on Taupō's lakefront, the #LOVETAUPŌ lettering has quickly become an icon of the town and a must-stop photo spot.

  • Hot pools

    Otumuheke Stream

    Unwind following a day full of adventures by taking a dip in the thermally-heated Otumuheke Stream's mineral-laden waters while watching New Zealand's longest river flow by.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Hiking & walking trails

    Aratiatia Rapids Lookout Walk

    Several times a day the gates at the Aratiatia dam are opened to release the full flow of the river, a spectacular sight from the lookout points - kids will love it!

  • 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.

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