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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.
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.
Cruise Lake Taupo to the famous Maori Rock Carvings, then jet boat to Huka Falls on the mighty Waikato Huka Falls.
"Be Fearless" and take an amazing sailing trip on Great Lake Taupo, sailing to the Maori Rock carvings. It's a great affordable and family friendly cruise.
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.
Cable Wakeboarding Park, Ride our 2 tower cable for the price of lunch. Great way to experience wakeboarding. If you are a beginner that does not know what we are talking about, or a pro that is travelling the world checking out cable's of the world.
Kayaks and Stand Up Paddleboards, the most chilled of our Tongariro Adventures! What better way to relax than to be at one with nature on the spectacularly beautiful Kuratau River. Paddle this navigable pristine river, surrounded by bush & birdsong.
Want the 'best possible rafting experience in the Taupo Region?' We're the number one rated Taupo rafting experience on TripAdvisor. We've had over 230,000 customers in the last 27 years. 'Hands down this is the most fun in the Taupo region.'
Our guides are personable, qualified and ready to guide you on the Whanganui River. Adrift provides instruction, transport, equipment and gear hire. We guide every day and guarantee trip departures with wind, rain, snow and shine.
Taupo Boating & Fishing Charters are great trips for every occasion. Entertain your friends, family, colleagues, and clients on the 'Great' Lake Taupo. We offer fishing and fun trips and sightseeing cruises.
The Lower Tongariro River hardly needs any introduction. Hundreds of anglers every year descend upon Turangi to fish the legendary Tongariro River.