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Scenic attractions
Defined by an ancient volcanic landscape with the largest freshwater lake in Australasia (plus more than 20 other lakes), thundering waterfalls, ancient native bush, the mighty Waikato River and Tongariro River and the volcanic mountains of the dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park, Taupo's spectacular natural features and scenic attractions can't be found anywhere else in the world.
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Cycling & mountain biking
Rotary Ride
From Taupo town you can ride all the way to Huka Falls (and on to Aratiatia Dam), following the course of the Waikato River along the Huka Falls Rotary Ride.
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Biking trails
Te Iringa
Te Iringa is a 38km 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.
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Heritage attractions
Te Porere Redoubt
Te Porere Redoubt is the earthworks of a Maori fortification bult by the prophet and warrior Te Kooti; the last major engagement of the New Zealand Wars was fought here in October 1869. It is open at all times.
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Hiking trails
Kaimanawa Road short walks
These two family short easy walks starting from Urchin Campsite at the end of Kaimanawa Road in the Kaimanawa Forest Park are perfect for families.
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Biking trails
Tongariro River Trail
Discover stunning native bush, winding singletrack and lovely river views on this scenic looped ride along both sides of the Tongariro River in Turangi - perfect for the whole family.
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Scenic attractions
Aratiatia Rapids
Aratiatia Rapids is one of the most popular natural attractions in the North Island. Thousands of litres of water are released from the Aratiatia Dam creating a spectacular flow of water through a narrow gorge.
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Hiking trails
Oruatua Walk
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.
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Hiking trails
Mt Urchin Track
Mount Urchin offers an easily accessible wilderness of beautiful beech forest, incredible views and a real alpine environment.
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Cycling & mountain biking
Waikato River Trails
Mountain bikers can explore a series of trails along New Zealand's longest river - the mighty Waikato River. The trails cover about 100 kilometres of previously inaccessible Southern Waikato land from Lake Karapiro to the Atiamuri Dam.
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Hiking trails
Ketetahi Track
The Ketetahi Track is a section of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. You can get close up views of the active Te Maari Craters.
