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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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  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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
  • Geothermal walks

    Tokaanu Thermal Walk

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

  • Theme & leisure parks

    Taupo Mini Golf

    Come and enjoy Taupō town's 18 hole mini golf course, centrally located right on the lakefront. Amazing lake views and fun for all ages. Get a hole in one on the 18th and receive a free game.

    $13
  • Rafting

    White Water Rafting - Tongariro River Rafting

    Want the 'best possible rafting experience in the Taupo Region?' We're the number one rated Taupō rafting experience on TripAdvisor. We've had over 230,000 customers in the last 30 years. 'Hands down this is the most fun in the Taupō region.'

    $199 Book now
  • Scenic attraction

    Hot Water Beach

    As the name suggests, Hot Water Beach is an incredible slice of lake frontage where you can enjoy steaming hot water straight from a natural geothermal spring! With views over the water and to the mountains - you won’t find a more scenic foot spa anywhere else in the world.

  • 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.

  • 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.

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