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.
This short loop walk from Kakaho Campsite takes in the fantastic views and the tall trees of the Pureora Forest.
Silica Rapids is a short easy walk in the UNESCO dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park.
You can combine these hiking tracks for a multi-night tramp with lush beech forest, river crossings and wildlife.
The Ketetahi Track is a section of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. You can get close up views of the active Te Maari Craters.
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.
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.
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The Orakau Trail is a nice gradual downhill which takes you through stunning native wetlands before dropping you into the secluded Kawakawa Bay.
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.
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.