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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

    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.

  • 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!

  • Farms

    Lilliput Farm - Fun and Animal Park

    Lilliput offers a wonderful hands-on animal experience for all the family, in a peaceful setting. There is plenty for the children to do with fun playground activities and all our animals to feed and learn about. Bring a picnic and relax.

    $10 - $12
  • Theme & leisure parks

    Huka Prawn Park

    Discover a place where the whole family will be entertained for hours on end. Pack a picnic, togs and towel and spend the day exploring, or dine on the edge of the Waikato River at Riverside Restaurant with delicious meals and breathtaking views.

    $27.50
  • 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
  • Scenic attraction

    Te Ātea - Tapuaeharuru

    Where Taupō township meets the lakefront, you’ll discover the newly-created Te Ātea (the Māori word for 'space'). Its purpose? A meeting place for all. But behind it is a story that began many thousands of years ago.

  • 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.

  • Hot pools & health spas

    Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs

    Unique hot pools with outdoor and indoor pools, two amazing heated racing slides, children's interactive warm water playground, private pools and spa treatments.

    $19 - $24 Book now
  • Boat cruises

    Taxicat Adventures - Western Bays - Chasing Waterfalls

    Are you a fan of waterfalls? We certainly are! Join us to explore the stunning Northern end of the hidden Western Bays of Lake Taupō on one of our delightful Western Bay Chasing Waterfalls cruises.

    $145
  • 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
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