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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.

  • Geothermal walks

    Tokaanu Thermal Walk

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

  • Kayaking

    Kayak the Mighty Waikato River with Canoe & Kayak - Canoe and Kayak Taupō

    Let Canoe & Kayak pilot your exploration of the crystal clear waters of New Zealand's longest river, the mighty Waikato, on a 2 hour guided trip. This stunning tour runs daily and is perfect for the whole family.

    $90 Book now
  • Hot pools

    Otumuheke Stream

    Unwind following a day full of adventures by taking a dip in the thermally-heated Otumuheke Stream's mineral-laden waters while watching New Zealand's longest river flow by.

  • Boat cruises

    Ernest Kemp Scenic Cruises - Lake Taupō, Daily Māori Rock Carvings Cruises

    Daily scenic cruises to the Māori Rock Carvings, Mine Bay. Ernest Kemp cruises daily, year round. Only accessible by water the Maori Rock carvings are a 'must do' Taupō activity. Relaxing 1.5 & 2 Hour cruises over crystal clear waters of Lake Taupō.

    $55 - $59 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!

  • Hiking & walking trails

    Waikato River Walking Track

    This shared-use track starts at the Huka Falls carpark and ends at Otupo Flat.

  • 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
  • Parasailing

    Taupō Parasail

    Come fly 1000 ft. above Lake Taupo and see New Zealand's most beautiful lake from a bird's eye view. Feel secure that you are with the most experienced parasail crew and the finest vessels in the industry. Fun for the whole family.

    $124 - $164 Book now
  • 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.

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