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Love Taupō Great Lake Pathway, Taupō town

Dog friendly Taupō

With over 18 off-leash areas and over 200km of dog-friendly biking and hiking trails across our region, your four-legged best friend is sure to have an epic holiday in Taupō. From cruising to the mighty Huka Falls or sailing to the Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings, or even exploring our boutique shops and world-class dog friendly restaurants and cafes, there is an endless array of activities to do with your canine friend. And finding accommodation for you and your dog is that easy with options right on the lakefront.

Discover why Taupō is the most dog friendly region in New Zealand!

Make memories will all members of your whānau in the Taupō region; that includes your pets! Your fur friends can join you on so many adventures around town. They can visit the marvellous Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings with you on the replica steamboat Ernest Kemp, or cruise by your side to the Huka Falls with Huka Falls Cruise. Or for something totally unique, bring your pets along to explore the geothermal wonderland of Orakei Korako Cave & Geothermal Park. You will never have to leave your fur family members behind while you experience the Taupō region.

Dog friendly activities in Taupō

With world-class hiking and biking trails throughout the Taupō region, you and your pet can enjoy the incredible scenic landscapes, riverside trails, geothermal wonders, and forest parks together. Take in the stunning natural attractions of Taupo like the Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings, Huka Falls, or Orakei Korako with your canine friend at your side.

Wanna bring your pup? Just call ahead of time so the tours and activities are ready for your pooch.

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Biking trails
River Side Trail

The River Side Trail in Taupō is a scenic, two-way path along the Waikato River between Control Gates Bridge and Spa Thermal Park. Ideal for all ages, it offers gentle terrain, stunning river views, and lush native bush. The trail connects to the Rotary Ride and Huka Trails, passes Cherry Island and River Side Reserve, and climbs behind Taupo Bungy, ending at Spa Thermal Park.
Hiking & walking trails
Rangatira Point Track

This easy walk winds through native bush along the lake edge, offering fantastic views and great picnic, swimming and fishing spots. It's perfect for families and those wanting to enjoy Lake Taupo.
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
Boat cruises
Venture Beyond - Chasing Waterfalls 3.5 Hour Adventurer

Join us for an incredible adventure exploring the stunning cliffs, secret ravines, breathtaking waterfalls, and sandy beaches of the Western Bays of Lake Taupō. With daily departures from Kinloch, we can't wait for you to experience it with us.

$285
Biking trails
Waihaha Section

Discover the Waihaha section of the Great Lake Trails made up of two interconnected trails: the Waihaha Link and the Waihora Link. The Taupō region’s supervolcanic nature is on full display with towering volcanic rock cliffs, breathtaking vistas, and a secluded waterfall nestled within the Waihaha Valley.
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
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.
Biking trails
The Karapiro Trail

Start at Rhubarb Café, visit the historic suspension bridge, ride through native forests and farmland, explore boardwalks and sculptures, and pass through Huihuitaha Wetland to finish at Pokaiwhenua Bridge carpark. The trail offers a mix of gentle undulations and scenic views, making it perfect for a relaxed and enjoyable ride.
Boat cruises
Sail Barbary - eco sailing Lake Taupo

Explore Lake Taupō on an eco-friendly electric sailboat with Sail Barbary. This one-of-a-kind experience is 100% emissions-free, noise-free, and sustainable, ensuring that your journey leaves no trace on the environment.

$55 - $65 Book now
Volcanic/Geothermal
Orakei Korako Cave & Geothermal Park

Orakei Korako 'The Place of Adorning' - a spectacular Geothermal attraction. Lonely Planet Travellers Guide writes: “Orakei Korako is arguably the best thermal area left in New Zealand".

$57 Book now

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