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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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  • 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
  • Maori Cultural Attractions

    The Haka Shop

    Māori hāngī dinner & cultural show. Meet the real locals to hear the real stories of our tribal area. The Haka Shop welcomes you. Or take a walk with guide Snow or weave a mini kete with our expert weavers.

    $69 - $16,000 Book now
  • Theme & leisure parks

    Lake Taupo Hole in One Challenge

    Golf inspires us to try things we never thought we could do. Swing by and take on the famous Hole in One challenge by hitting golf balls out onto a floating pontoon on Lake Taupō to win the ultimate prize of $10,000 cash! Play like a champion today.

    $1.50 - $40
  • Theme & leisure parks

    Swingers Putt Putt

    Swingers Putt Putt is Taupō’s must-visit mini golf destination. Our 18-hole course takes you on a journey through the Central Plateau, uncovering local history and iconic attractions along the way.

    $10 - $14
  • 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
  • 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!

  • 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
  • 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
  • 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.

  • Geothermal walks

    Tokaanu Thermal Walk

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

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