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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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  • 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.

    $159 Book now
  • 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.

  • 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
  • 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!

  • 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

    Pukawa Bay Walks

    Walk through ancient forest, experience spectacular lake vistas, and enjoy constant birdsong on a variety of walks on the southwestern shores of Lake Taupo.

  • Boat cruises

    Huka Falls River Cruise

    Cruise to New Zealand’s most visited natural attraction, Huka Falls, in our purpose-built riverboat. Enjoy incredible views of this spectacular waterfall in comfort with Huka Falls River Cruise.

    $59 Book now
  • 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
  • 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
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