Attractions in Taupo

Taupo attractions cluster around Lake Taupo and the river that drains it: Huka Falls, warm geothermal streams, cliff-edge thrill rides and the water of New Zealand's largest lake. Huka Falls is a 10-minute drive from town, and the thrill rides are on Spa Road in Taupo itself.

The lake and the river that drains it

Lake Taupo is the largest lake in New Zealand by surface area. It fills the caldera of the Taupo volcano, which last erupted around 1,800 years ago, and the Waikato River, New Zealand's longest, flows out of it.

The lake shows its size from the water. Taupo cruises run past the Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay, and Taupo water sports include parasailing from the Taupo Boat Harbour.

Huka Falls and the geothermal sights

At Huka Falls, the Waikato River squeezes into a narrow canyon, and a viewing bridge and short walks with information panels let you watch it from above. The falls are a 10-minute drive from town on Huka Falls Road.

Warm water runs through the area too. The Spa Thermal Park, a 25-minute walk from the town centre, has geothermal pools beside the Waikato River along the Otumuheke Stream, with changing rooms and lockers nearby. A jet boat tour to Huka Falls adds the river's own view, passing highlights such as the Huka Prawn Park, the Aratiatia Dam and the Wairakei geothermal power station.

Cliff-edge thrills in Taupo

The Taupo Swing at AJ Hackett Taupo Bungy and Swing, 202 Spa Road, harnesses riders in 44 metres above the Waikato River and releases them into a free-fall swing that reaches speeds of 70kph. You can ride solo, tandem or in a body harness style, and photos and video are included. It operates in the rain but may pause in high winds, hail or thunderstorms.

The same site runs a 47-metre bungy jump with an optional water touch, and a bungy and giant swing combo for anyone who wants both in one visit. Spectators are welcome to watch.

A different view comes from skydiving over Lake Taupo, with jumps from 12,000ft or up to 16,500ft out of Taupo Airport and a shuttle from town accommodation. More options sit under Taupo activities.

Winter attractions around Taupo

Winter changes what Taupo offers. Mt Ruapehu's ski fields are within easy reach of town, and warm geothermal pools take the chill out afterwards.

Guided volcanic walks run through winter as well, with crampons and ice axes supplied when conditions need them on the Tongariro tours from Taupo.

Is Taupo worth visiting?

Taupo suits travellers who want a mix of landscape and adrenaline in one stop. The lake, the river, the falls, the geothermal streams and the cliff-edge thrill rides share a small area, and the town sits on the road between Auckland and Wellington.

Rotorua is a 1-hour drive away, Napier and Hamilton are 2-hour drives, Auckland is a 3.5-hour drive and Wellington a 4.5-hour drive. Families can start with things to do in Taupo with kids, and the full run of things to do in Taupo ties it all together.

Frequently asked questions

What are the main attractions in Taupo?

The main attractions in Taupo are Lake Taupo, Huka Falls, the Spa Thermal Park's geothermal streams, the Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay and the bungy jump and giant swing over the Waikato River.

How far is Huka Falls from Taupo?

Huka Falls is a 10-minute drive from Taupo town on Huka Falls Road.

Where is the Taupo Swing?

The Taupo Swing is at AJ Hackett Taupo Bungy and Swing, 202 Spa Road, Taupo, over the Waikato River.

Does the Taupo Swing run in the rain?

Yes. The Taupo Swing operates in the rain, though it may pause during high winds, hail or thunderstorms.

Can kids do the Taupo Swing?

The Taupo Swing sells a child ticket for ages 10 to 14 years, and tandem swings are booked by buying two tickets that suit the riders' ages.

Is Taupo worth visiting?

Yes, for anyone who likes lake views, thermal sights and adrenaline. Taupo has Lake Taupo, Huka Falls, geothermal streams and cliff-edge thrill rides, and winter brings skiing at Mt Ruapehu.

What is there to do in Taupo in winter?

Winter in Taupo means skiing at Mt Ruapehu, soaking in geothermal pools and jet boat rides, which run all year. The Tongariro guided walk also runs through winter with extra equipment supplied.

Taupo attractions reach from the lake shore to the edge of the Waikato gorge, and most of them sit within a short trip of the town centre. Choose a couple that suit your group, and fit them around the rest of Taupo.