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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.

  • Hot pools & health spas

    Turtle Pools - Turangi

    Turtle Pools is located in the centre of Tūrangi and offers entertainment for all ages. A fully enclosed swimming pool facility with an air temperature of 24 degrees and is Poolsafe accredited.

    $7
  • Boat cruises

    Kindred Spirit - Maori Carvings Sailing Tour

    Set sail on a timeless journey to see the Māori Rock Carvings aboard a beautiful classical sailing boat. Experience the best way to explore Lake Taupō with this environmentally friendly sailing tour.

    $59 - $75 Book now
  • Biking trails

    Tongariro River Trail

    Explore the Tongariro River Trail in Turangi, offering gentle riverside rides and stunning native bush. Cross a scenic swing bridge and stop at the Tongariro National Trout Centre for a picnic and learning experience, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Perfect for the whole family.

  • Hiking & walking trails

    Taranaki Falls

    Taranaki Falls is a short easy walk in the UNESCO dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park.

  • Theme & leisure parks

    Turangi Climbing Gym

    Turangi Climbing Gym is fun for the whole family and experience levels! With top ropes, lead climbing and bouldering problems which are always changing, you can spend plenty of time here, and know each time you come there will be a new challenge.

    $15 - $20
  • 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
  • Scenic attraction

    Tongariro Domain Playground

    Right in the heart of town centre is Taupō's newest family destination! Walk through the gardens of the Tongariro Domain, grab takeaways from one of the many cafes off Tongariro Street, and picnic on Tongariro's Domain's lawn right next to the playground. Just a stone's throw away from Lake Taupō, enjoy an afternoon of pure fun.

  • Volcanic/Geothermal

    Craters of the Moon Taupō Geothermal Walk

    Craters of the Moon Taupō New Zealand is a geothermal walkway with Lunar Landscapes - Hence its name. Craters of the Moon showcase the natural thermal activity of Taupo including bubbling craters, steam vents and colourful soils. 45+ minutes walk.

    $10
  • Biking trails

    Timber Trail

    The 85km long Timber Trail is a unique mountain bike ride across ancestral Maori lands, taking you deep into the ancient Pureora Forest Park in New Zealand's central North Island.

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