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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 pilot your exploration of the crystal clear waters of New Zealand's longest river, the mighty Waikato, on a 2 hour guided trip. This stunning tour runs daily and is perfect for the whole family.
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.
The Lower Tongariro River hardly needs any introduction. Hundreds of anglers every year descend upon Turangi to fish the legendary Tongariro River.
We organise, plan and operate small group bus tours for student groups. Whatever your needs for your group travel within New Zealand we can offer complete logistics and full operation of your tour.
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
Let Taxicat Adventures connect you to the hidden treasures that are the Western Bays of Lake Taupō. Towering cliffs, hidden ravines, waterfalls and sandy bays are a snapshot of what your adventure with us might look like.
Experience NZ's finest scenery from the air and on the water! The Duck & Dive combo gives you the chance to skydive and raft in two of the most beautiful spots in the Central North Island.
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.
This all-year-round activity offers relaxation, fun and adventure on the water. Get right up close to this culturally significant 46 foot (14m) high rock art. Enjoy amusing and current commentary on Lake Taupo, the volcanoes and the carvings.
The Tongariro Whitewater Grade 3 is our most popular adventure and thNZ's best half day rafting adventure - Our most popular trip - You'll raft over 50 plus exciting rapids, through a beautiful volcanic gorge & enjoy on river hot chocolate & snacks.