Taupo

Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
25/08/2025
Tranquil view of Lake Taupō with a boat and distant shoreline under a bright blue sky.
Gaurav Kumar, Pexels

Taupō, nestled in the heart of New Zealand's North Island, is a diverse destination offering both thrilling adventures and serene natural beauty. It is centered around the vast Lake Taupō, providing a wide array of water-based activities and stunning volcanic landscapes to explore.

The lakefront area and the town center of Taupō are vibrant hubs where visitors can socialize, with numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs available. Many backpacker hostels also feature communal lounges, providing excellent opportunities to connect with fellow travelers.

Top 6 Things to do in Taupo

Taupō offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring powerful geothermal landscapes and unique cultural sites to embarking on thrilling aerial adventures and serene lake cruises.

1. Huka Falls & Hukafalls Jet

Witness the immense power of Huka Falls, where the Waikato River narrows into a rocky gorge, forcing 220,000 litres of water per second over an 11-meter drop. Viewing platforms and a footbridge provide excellent vantage points. For an exhilarating close-up, experience a jet boat ride to the base of the falls, complete with thrilling 360-degree spins.

Cost: Viewing Huka Falls: Free. Hukafalls Jet: Approximately NZD $88.42 per person for a 30-minute ride.

Transport: Huka Falls is approximately a 10-minute drive from Taupō town centre. Taxis will cost around NZD $20-30. There is no direct public transport. Some jet boat operators may offer pick-ups.

2. Lake Taupō Māori Rock Carvings Cruise

Embark on a scenic boat cruise across Lake Taupō to the Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings. These impressive 10-metre high carvings, only accessible by water, depict the Māori high priest Ngātoroirangi and offer a unique blend of cultural insight and natural beauty. Cruises often provide informative commentary and refreshments, with options for sailing yachts or larger catamarans.

Cost: Cruises typically range from NZD $27-$59 per adult, depending on duration and vessel. Kayak tours to the carvings are also available, starting from around NZD $40-60 per person.

Transport: Most cruises depart from Taupō Boat Harbour, which is within walking distance of the town centre. Taxis are readily available for short distances if needed.

3. Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, renowned as one of New Zealand's best one-day hikes. This 19.4-kilometre trek traverses dramatic volcanic landscapes, featuring active volcanoes, steaming vents, and the vividly coloured Emerald Lakes. The challenging terrain, including steep climbs, rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Cost: The hike itself is free. Return shuttle transport from Taupō ranges from NZD $70-$130 per person. Guided walks can cost significantly more, from NZD $350-$900 per person, and often include gear and expert guidance.

Transport: Shuttle services operate daily from Taupō, picking up from central accommodation or the i-SITE. Bookings are essential, especially due to its one-way nature. The journey to the trailhead takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

4. Skydiving over Lake Taupō

Experience the ultimate thrill of tandem skydiving over Lake Taupō. Leap from altitudes up to 16,500 feet and enjoy a freefall at speeds of 200 km/hour, followed by a serene parachute ride. The panoramic views encompass Lake Taupō, the surrounding mountains, and the coastline, offering a unique perspective of the region's stunning landscapes.

Cost: Prices vary by altitude, ranging from approximately NZD $199 for 9,000 ft to $529 for 16,500 ft. Photo and video packages are an additional cost.

Transport: Taupō Tandem Skydiving offers free transport within Taupō, often in their distinctive yellow stretch Hummer.

5. Craters of the Moon Geothermal Walk

Explore Craters of the Moon, an active geothermal walkway with unique lunar-like landscapes. Wander along well-maintained boardwalks through steaming vents, bubbling craters, and colourful soils. An optional uphill path leads to a viewpoint for broader vistas of the geothermal field, showcasing the Earth's raw power.

Cost: Admission is approximately NZD $10 for adults and $5 for children. A family pass (2 adults, up to 4 children) is around $25.

Transport: Craters of the Moon is about 8 km north of Taupō town centre. It is a 9-10 minute taxi ride costing approximately NZD $29-$40. There is no direct public bus, but a bus (Line 33) combined with a short taxi ride is possible for around NZD $26-$35. Self-driving is also an option with ample parking.

6. Taupō Bungy & Giant Swing

Challenge yourself at New Zealand's highest cliff-top bungy jump or take on the exhilarating giant swing over the Waikato River. The bungy plunge is 47 metres, with an option for a water-touch experience in the crystal-clear waters below. The swing reaches speeds of up to 70 km/hour. Both activities offer incredible views of the river canyon.

Cost: Bungy Jump: Approximately NZD $275 for adults. Giant Swing: Approximately NZD $160 for adults. Photo and video packages are available from an additional NZD $40.

Transport: Located about five minutes from Taupō town centre at 202 Spa Road. Free transport from downtown Taupō is often available, or self-drive with on-site parking.

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