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.
Silica Rapids is a short easy walk in the UNESCO dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park.
Te Iringa is a 19km long return mountain bike ride and one of the most technical grade 5 trails in New Zealand. For avid mountain bikers this is trail you must tick off your bucket list.
You can combine these hiking tracks for a multi-night tramp with lush beech forest, river crossings and wildlife.
The Waihaha Hut Track is set in native forest within the Pureora Forest Park on the western side of Lake Taupo.
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.
Ride a network of trails that wind along the Waikato River, connecting Taupo town with Huka Falls, Aratiatia Dam, Wairakei Tourist Park and Craters Mountain Bike Park.
The Kawakawa Section of the Great Lake Trails is made up of the K2K Trail, Orakau Trail, and Otaketake Trail.
The Orakau Trail is a nice gradual downhill which takes you through stunning native wetlands before dropping you into the secluded Kawakawa Bay.
Nestled against the Kaimanawa Ranges and Mohaka River, Poronui Lodge offers an exclusive mountain biking experience on a 16,000-acre estate. Enjoy the thrilling rides through diverse terrains, from gravel roads to lush forests and open grasslands, all surrounded by breathtaking views.
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.
