Please note: Tongariro Alpine Crossing and other tracks across Tongariro National Park has reopened. Read the latest DOC update and track information here.

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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

    Silica Rapids

    Silica Rapids is a short easy walk in the UNESCO dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park.

  • Scenic attraction

    Te Ātea - Tapuaeharuru

    Where Taupō township meets the lakefront, you’ll discover the newly-created Te Ātea (the Māori word for 'space'). Its purpose? A meeting place for all. But behind it is a story that began many thousands of years ago.

  • Scenic attraction

    Tokaanu Historic Wharf

    Back in the 1880s, there were few roads in Taupo. Goods were shipped across Lake Taupo from Tokaanu Wharf.

  • Hiking & walking trails

    Tawhai Falls

    This short easy walk in the Tongariro National Park is accessible on foot from Whakapapa Village or a short drive to the start of the track.

  • Biking trails

    Waihora Link

    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.

  • Hiking & walking trails

    Opepe Scenic and Historic Reserve

    Wander among ancient towering trees and discover relics of the area's fascinating pioneering history, only a short drive from Taupō.

  • Hiking & walking trails

    Round the Mountain Track

    The multi-day Round the Mountain Track located in the UNESCO dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park showcases the varied volcanic landscapes and alpine vegetation on the flanks of the active volcano Mount Ruapehu. It's a more remote alternative to the Tongariro Northern Circuit Great Walk and will take you 4 - 6 days.

  • Geothermal walks

    Tokaanu Thermal Walk

    See steaming hot mineral pools and spluttering mud pools on this short, easy walk.

  • Hiking & walking 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.

  • Scenic attraction

    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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