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Water is Taupo’s defining element, from the snow on our volcanic peaks to the steam rising from our geothermal vents. But the best way to enjoy it is to get right into or on to our lakes, rivers and hot pools.
Lake Taupo’s clean waters are refreshing but swimmable through spring, summer and autumn (and winter if you’re brave!). You can kayak, fly high above the lake on a parasail, stand-up paddleboard, hire a sailing boat, waterski, wakeboard, or windsurf.
Lake Taupo changes through the days and seasons, offering many different types of beauty as you cruise its waters. On sunny days, it’s often smooth as glass and as blue as the sky above. When it’s overcast, it can be wreathed in mist and dark green like pounamu (Maori for jade).
Whatever the weather, a scenic boat cruise by launch, yacht or steamboat always has plenty to see. From native water birds, beautiful bush-clad coves, the evocative Mine Bay Maori rock carvings that tell the story of the great Maori high priest Ngatoroirangi, or even just the clear, rippling water of Lake Taupo with its amazing depth and visibility.
There are also fishing charters and cruises, world-class fly fishing on the rivers, river floats and white-water rafting for all ages.
For those with a taste for adventure, a jet boat trip on the Waikato River combines thrilling action with the chance to see spectacular natural features like the Huka Falls, Aratiatia Rapids or the ethereal Tutukau Gorge up close.
And after a busy day, there’s no better way to unwind than by soaking in one of the region’s geothermally heated mineral pools or natural hot pools.
Let Canoe & Kayak take you on a kayak adventure across stunning Lake Taupo while taking in all the beautiful views of the surrounding coastline and neighbouring mountains before getting up close and personal to the iconic Maori Rock Carvings.
The most exclusive jet ski experience on Lake Taupo. No experience needed - Hire & drive the jet ski yourself. Blast around the bay or go on a self-guided tour by following the GPS map on the ski all the way to the iconic Maori rock carvings.
Taupo Class Combo - must do in Taupo • 90 minutes Scenic Lake Cruise with Chris Jolly Outdoors • 30 minutes jet boat ride with Hukafalls Jet to the base of the spectacular Huka Falls
Te Kupenga which means "Fishing Net" in Te Reo, is the newest addition to the fleet of boats managed by Chris Jolly Outdoors. Te Kupenga is a legendary stabicraft that has been set up as a trout catching machine.
The Tongariro River is a dam-controlled river which enables us to raft all year round, sadly there are some sacrifices that have to be made in order to have that happen – when the hydro dam was built, a portion of the river was re-routed underground.
Taupo Kayaking Adventures (TKA) specialises in guided scenic tours and trips on Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest fresh water lake, rivers, streams, walking and mountain biking tracks and trails in the Great Lake Taupo Region.
Maori owned and operated, Rafting New Zealand has been operating for over 25 years and is New Zealand’s best, safest and most awarded Rafting Company. Providing authentic Rafting adventures for ages 3 and up. No experience necessary.
This half day trip is for those who would like to explore a few secluded hidden gems of Lake Taupo’s Western Bays which are mainly only accessible by water. This is an amazing way to explore great Lake Taupo.
We will take you on a 1/2 day adventure kayaking to the impressive 14m high Maori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay, Lake Taupo. Only close-up viewing is accessible by water, a visit to the carvings is the must do activity in Taupo.
Kayaking through geothermal features along the Waikato River, bathing under a hot springs waterfall or wandering through Orakei Korako Geothermal Park is without a doubt one of the best ways to experience the geothermal wonders of NZ.