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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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  • 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.

  • Hiking & walking trails

    Aratiatia Rapids Lookout Walk

    Several times a day the gates at the Aratiatia dam are opened to release the full flow of the river, a spectacular sight from the lookout points - kids will love it!

  • Biking trails

    Craters Mountain Bike Park

    Craters MTB Park is a purpose-built mountain bike park located only a short distance from Taupō town, with trails ranging from children’s entry-level to technical cross-country and downhill trails.

  • Hiking & walking trails

    Waikato River Walking Track

    This shared-use track starts at the Huka Falls carpark and ends at Otupo Flat.

  • 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.

  • Hiking & walking trails

    Kiko Loop Track

    This short loop track is a great way for walkers and mountain bikers to experience the variety of nature in the Kaimanawa Forest Park. Highlights include stunning podocarp forest and impressive views of Lake Taupō.

  • Hiking & walking trails

    Huka Falls Lookout Walk

    Take a scenic walk along the banks of the Waikato River, or simply explore the many lookout points at Huka Falls, one of the most visited natural attractions in New Zealand - these short, easy walks are great for kids.

  • Hiking & walking trails

    Taranaki Falls

    Taranaki Falls is a short easy walk in the UNESCO dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park.

  • 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.

  • Biking trails

    Te Iringa Track

    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.

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