The Taupo region is currently at Alert Level 1. Read more.
The Taupo region is currently at Alert Level 1. Read more.
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.
Walk along the banks of the Waikato River from the hot springs in Spa Thermal Park to the spectacular Huka Falls.
The 85km long Timber Trail is a unique mountain bike ride across ancestral Maori lands, taking you deep into the ancient Pureora Forest Park in New Zealand's central North Island.
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!
This short loop walk from Kakaho Campsite takes in the fantastic views and the tall trees of the Pureora Forest.
The newest section of the Great Lake Trails can be ridden by itself (10km) or part of a 36km loop that starts and finishes in Kinloch.
Known as the greatest mountain bike ride in the North Island, the 42 Traverse follows an old logging road through some of the most remote and rugged land in New Zealand.
The Waihaha Hut Track is set in native forest within the Pureora Forest Park on the western side of Lake Taupo.
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.
This easy walk in Pureora Forest Park takes you to a small rain-fed lagoon surrounded by tall kahikatea and rimu trees.
The Tree Trunk Gorge trail will take you on a picturesque journey through the Kaimanawa Forest Park. It passes through classic central North Island beech forest, across streams and rivers and over two impressive gorges as it tracks along the upper section of the Tongariro River.