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.
Beyond Earth provides entertaining stargazing experiences either at our own venue, or your home or holiday accommodation.
The Ketetahi Track is a section of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. You can get close up views of the active Te Maari Craters.
Ride amongst vast stands of Kamahi, through volcanic rock formations and past the intriguing Echo Rock before you start to descend down the Kotukutuku Stream.
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.
The Orakau Trail is a nice gradual downhill which takes you through stunning native wetlands before dropping you into the secluded Kawakawa Bay.
This easy walk in Pureora Forest Park takes you to a small rain-fed lagoon surrounded by tall kahikatea and rimu trees.
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.
This track is the shortest route to the top of Mount Pureora. On a clear day walkers are rewarded with views across Lake Taupō, the Mamaku Ranges, Mount Taranaki, and Mount Ruapehu.
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.
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.