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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.

  • 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
  • Taupō town

    Waipāhīhī Botanical Reserve

    Perched on a hilltop overlooking the shimmering caldera of Lake Taupō, this sweeping reserve, with its network of trails through different plant collections, is a relaxing haven for visitors.

  • 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!

  • 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.

  • 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
  • Geothermal walks

    Tokaanu Thermal Walk

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

  • 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.

  • Abseiling/Rappelling

    Taupō Rockwall

    Welcome to the Taupō Rockwall - our indoor climbing wall at the Taupō Events Centre is a challenging and fun all-weather activity for all ages.

    $16
  • Boat cruises

    Chris Jolly Outdoors Scenic Boat Tour to the Māori Rock Carvings

    For over 40 years, Chris Jolly Outdoors has delivered safe, comfortable experiences on Lake Taupō. Relax on our spacious, vessel as you cruise to the spectacular Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings on one of Taupō's must-do attractions.

    $65 Book now
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