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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Hiking & walking 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 & walking trails
Rimu Walk
This short loop walk from Kakaho Campsite takes in the fantastic views and the tall trees of the Pureora Forest.
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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
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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Hiking & walking trails
Boyd, Oamaru and Cascade Hut tracks
You can combine these hiking tracks for a multi-night tramp with lush beech forest, river crossings and wildlife.
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Hiking & walking trails
Link Road to Mount Pureora track
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.
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Biking trails
Headland Loop Trail (Great Lake Trails)
The Headland Loop Trail starts and finishes on the W2K Trail at the top of the headland between Kinloch and Whakaipo Bay.
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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
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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Hiking & walking trails
Lake Rotopounamu
Nestled on the side of Mt Pihanga, Lake Rotopounamu (‘greenstone lake’) is a special favourite of tree lovers and birdwatchers.
