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 Taupo. 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 Taupo 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.
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.
The Arapuni Trail, part of the Waikato River Trails, offers an exhilarating ride through lush native bush and open farmlands, with breathtaking river views. Highlights include the Arapuni Dam, scenic lookouts, ancient rock formations, and the historic Arapuni Power Station and Dam, making it a memorable adventure.
Take a scenic walk along the banks of the Waikato River, or simply explore the many lookout points at Huka Falls, one of the most visited natural attractions in New Zealand - these short, easy walks are great for kids.
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.
The newest section of the Great Lake Trails can be ridden by itself (12km) or part of a 36km loop that starts and finishes in Kinloch.
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.
Te Iringa is a 19km long return mountain bike ride and one of the most technical grade 5 trails in New Zealand. For avid mountain bikers this is trail you must tick off your bucket list.
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.
Hire & drive your own donut boat! Pack some drinks & nibbles, & cruise Lake Taupo while enjoying your favorite music via onboard Bluetooth speakers. Throw the anchor and jump on in.
At the mouth of the Tauranga-Taupo River in the small village of Oruatua, there are two easy walking tracks to enjoy the river, the native bush of the reserves and the expansive lake views.
The Orakau Trail is a nice gradual downhill which takes you through stunning native wetlands before dropping you into the secluded Kawakawa Bay.
