Scenic attractions in Taupo
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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Biking trails
Waikato River Trails
Mountain bikers and walkers can explore a series of cycle trails along New Zealand's longest river - the mighty Waikato River.
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Hiking & walking trails
Tama Lakes
The Tama Lakes track forms part of the Tongariro Northern Circuit Great Walk and is a great alternative to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
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Biking trails
Waihaha Section - Great Lake Trails
Discover the Waihaha section of the Great Lake Trails made up of two interconnected trails: the Waihaha Trial and the Waihora Trail. 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.
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Scenic attraction
Lake Kuratau
Behind the beautiful lakeside settlement of Kuratau sits the smallest but mightiest lake in the Taupo Fishery when it comes to hauling in heaps of fish. Originally part of the hydro-power scheme, Lake Kuratau is a flooded forest stocked to the brim with small rainbows and the occasional brown.
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Biking trails
42 Traverse
The 42 Traverse follows an old logging road through some of the most remote and rugged land in New Zealand.
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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.
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Biking trails
Otaketake Trail - Great Lake Trails
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.
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Biking trails
Waihaha Hut Track
The Waihaha Hut Track is set in native forest within the Pureora Forest Park on the western side of Lake Taupo.
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Biking trails
Orakau Trail (Great Lake Trails)
The Orakau Trail is a nice gradual downhill which takes you through stunning native wetlands before dropping you into the secluded Kawakawa Bay.
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Biking trails
K2K Trail - Great Lake Trails
Flowing downhill, stunning wetlands, secluded beaches perfect for a mid-way swim and sweeping views of Lake Taupo are just some of the highlights of the K2K Trail, part of the Kawakawa Section of the Great Lake Trails.
