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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

    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

    Opepe Scenic and Historic Reserve

    Wander among ancient towering trees and discover relics of the area's fascinating pioneering history, only a short drive from Taupō.

  • Horse treks

    Enchanted Forest Horse Ride - Korohe Horse Treks

    Ride through the Enchanted Forest and discover Santa's hideout with your horse.

    $95
  • Hot pools

    Tokaanu Thermal Pools

    Soak, soothe and relax in the magical mineral waters of Tokaanu Thermal Pools.

    $8 - $14
  • 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
  • Rafting

    Tongariro Family Fun - Rafting New Zealand

    Splash, crash, swim & laugh, this trip is all about having fun, while travelling through the beautiful lower reaches of the Tongariro River. A great journey for families with young children our more senior of citizens & non English speaking visitors.

    $149 Book now
  • 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
  • Mountain biking

    FourB - Great Lake Trails 2-Day All Inclusive Package

    Part of the Super volcanic trail Network. Two nights B&B accommodation, meals and transport to mountain bike the Great Lake Trails over 2 days including the boat transfer from Waihaha on the first day and the K2K/W2K sections on the second day.

    $659 Book now
  • 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
  • Arts, Culture and Heritage

    Lava Glass Sculpture Garden

    Wander through an arty oasis featuring manicured grounds and hundreds of glass sculptures.

    $12.50
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