Taupo’s Top 10 Things to See and Do

New Zealand evokes images of rugged, spectacular nature, exciting outdoor activities and getting to know the unique Maori culture. On the North Island lies Taupo, a destination that offers all of this. Whether you love hiking, geothermal wonders or the vibrant city centre, Taupo will undoubtedly be a stop on your trip through New Zealand!

Taupo: More Than Just a Beautiful Lake

Taupo, located on New Zealand’s North Island, lies on the famous Lake Taupo which with its 464 km² is New Zealand’s largest lake. Once formed by a caldera collapse, it is surrounded by volcanic landscapes, forests and of course Taupo itself.

Taupo’s rich history includes habitation by the Maori for centuries. Nowadays Taupo is a lively city with a mix of Maori and European cultures. It is an ideal city to do some good shopping during your round trip or to go out for a nice meal. For example, you’ll find the world’s most beautiful McDonalds there. And then there is also more than enough to do in the surrounding area!

10x What to Do in Taupo

1. Encounter Geothermal Wonders in Orakei Korako Cave & Thermal Park

The Orakei Korako Cave & Thermal Park is a hidden gem. Orakei Korako is a unique geothermal environment with numerous geysers, mud pools, fumaroles and silica terraces. The park is also home to the Ruatapu Cave, a natural cave with beautiful stalagmites and stalactites. It is one of the quietest geothermal parks in New Zealand, simply because it is not very well known.

Upon arrival, you take a little boat to the other side, where you will do the walk of about 2 hours. We paid 94 NZD for the two of us.

2. Visit the Blue Huka Falls

Experience the deafening power of the Huka Falls, where New Zealand’s longest river, the Waikato, is squeezed through a ravine of lava stones. Not surprisingly, the Huka Falls are one of Taupo’s famous attractions. See how as much as 220,000 litres of water rush by per second! View the waterfalls from the footbridge or go for an exciting jetboat ride for a unique perspective.

You can also park a bit further away (this is indicated on the signs) and take a short walk to the Huka Falls. In practice, this is a bit of a disappointment. You don’t see the Huka Falls until from the parking lot.

From the Huka Falls, various walks can be done along the river!

3. Bathe in Geothermal Waters at Wairakei Terraces

Time for relaxation? At Wairakei Terraces, you enjoy a wonderful spa experience with hot water baths. Float in naturally heated pools (up to over 40 degrees, too hot for me!) under centuries-old silica terraces. You can also take a short walk here over the terraces. However, you do have to pay entrance fee for this.

You are allowed to bring your own consumptions to Wairakei Terraces (definitely recommended!), because they only sell water at the reception. There are multiple baths with different temperatures. Furthermore, there is no spa or other activities. So mainly nice to relax for a bit in the evening!

It is also possible from here to get close to the waterfall with a speedboat.

4. Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Probably New Zealand’s most beloved day hike – the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Walk through volcanic alpine landscape, around an active volcano and descend to the water-filled explosion craters, better known as the Emerald Lakes. Don’t forget to enjoy the view of Mount Ngauruhoe – in the Lord of the Rings trilogy better known as ‘Mount Doom’!

You walk for about 8 hours on this spectacular hike of about 20 km. And watch out: this is one way. So you need to arrange a shuttle bus to be able to do this hike.

5. Taste Delicious New Zealand Honey

New Zealand honey is known for its purity and healing properties. Go to the Huka Honey Hive in Taupo for a look into the world of manuka honey, royal jelly and bee pollen. Prefer an ice cream? End your visit with a honey ice cream!

6. Bike Adventure Along Lake Taupo: The Great Lake Trails

Discover the Taupo area on two wheels! The Great Lake Trails offer a cycling experience for all levels, with routes that take you along the shores of Lake Taupo and through beautiful forests and along spectacular volcanic landscapes. Choose a fully catered bike tour, a ride with a guide or rent a bike and plan your own route.

7. Dive into History at Craters of the Moon

Craters of the Moon in Taupo is a geothermal area with hissing steam vents, bubbling mud pools and colorful craters. Whether it is worth a visit depends on your interests and schedule. If you have already seen other geothermal parks, I would skip it. It costs you $10 per person entrance (used to be free, but not anymore). With 45 minutes of walking you are through it.

8. Enjoy a Volcanic Wine and Craft Beer Tour

Taupo’s volcanic soil and pure alpine water make wine, craft beers and cider from this region special and flavorful. And for this too, you can of course book a tour.

9. Take a Cruise on Lake Taupo

Sail during a boat trip to the Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings over New Zealand’s largest lake.

10. Fun with Kids: Explore the Prawn Park

The Huka Prawn Park is ideal for the whole family. Discover a place where the whole family will be entertained for hours. Bring a picnic, swimwear and towel and spend the day exploring, or dine on the edge of the Waikato River at Riverside Restaurant with delicious meals and beautiful views.

Overnight Stays in Taupo

We ourselves stayed at Bella Vista Taupo Motel Accommodation. A perfectly fine hotel apartment in the city as you can see on the map below. Now there are plenty of options in Taupo. Choose something nice that fits your budget!