9 Fascinating Things to Do in Taupo From Exciting to Serene

Taupō caught me by surprise. Honestly, I had no idea there were so many amazing, unusual, and interesting things to do in Taupo.

I am almost embarrassed to admit the number of times we passed through, stopping only for a few hours and moving on to Rotorua, Bay of Plenty, or even towards Wellington. This time was different.

We had built our own list of activities in Taupō and were ready to discover something new. And that is what we did and what we hope you will do too.

The most difficult part of writing this was putting the options in order, as there are so many equally impressive places to visit in Taupō. Let’s dive in.

Fascinating things to do in Taupō

Here’s our top 10, with more details on each below.

• Orakei Korako
• Aratiatia Rapids
• Craters of the Moon
• Māori Rock Carvings
• Lava Glass
• Huka Falls
• Taupō Museum and Art Gallery
• Wairakei resort
• Skydive over Lake Taupō
• Sunset over the lake

Map of Our favourite Places to visit in Taupō

The suggested stops in this article are featured on the map in red. As you can see, we concentrated our time in the northern section of Lake Taupō, where nearly all of the tourist and key attractions lie.

Witness the Thrilling Power of the Aratiatia Rapids

We started our list with Aratiatia Rapids as it happens on a time schedule. And you don’t want to be late, or you will miss one of the best Taupō attractions.

Every day, 3-4 times depending on the season, the Aratiatia Dam releases 1000s of litres of water that transform the tranquil river into a raging torrent of frothing white water.

• Summer (Oct to March) release hours – 10:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, 4:00pm
• Winter (Apr to Sep) release hours – 10:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm

About 10 minutes before the release, a series of alarms blared, alerting anyone stupid enough to have ignored all the other warning signs and chosen to hike down to the tempting natural pool. Then, exactly on time, the dam opens, releasing a torrent of water that rapidly raises the water levels.

It takes only a few minutes for the water to rise and to continue rapidly downriver. It’s really a must-see that can only be appreciated in person. While it’s one of the free activities in Taupō, if you are an adventure junkie, you might want to enjoy the Rapids Jet. Read about and reserve your often discounted Rapid Jets here.

If you are a Lord of the Rings fan, you might recognize Aratiatia Rapids as one of two locations used to film the scene where the dwarfs escape the elves in barrels thrown downstream.

Uncover the Otherworldly Terrain of Craters of the Moon

Here we got a taste of an otherworldly landscape. Craters of the Moon is different from the other geothermal marvels in the area. While we found the individual fumaroles interesting, it is the overall landscape that creates that stark “surface of the moon” effect. 

The easy-to-follow boardwalk trail has regular reminders to stay on the path as the earth below is steamy, hot, often boiling, and dangerous. It took us about an hour to complete, stopping often and at every lookout point for photos and just to stare out in wonder at this surreal display of nature. 

The main vent (Karapiti fumarole) is up some steps and well worth the extra energy to get there. 

Marvel at the Majestic Māori Rock Carvings

Steeped in mythology, the Māori Rock Carvings on Lake Taupō cliffs are a cultural and artistic marvel. Accessible only by boat, these intricate carvings tell stories of the Māori people.

Somehow, we have not done this yet, but cruising out to these ancient artworks tops our list of things to do in Lake Taupō for our next visit. Our top three options are:

• Scenic cruise out to the carvings
  With morning and afternoon departures and live commentary, this 90-minute tour is one of the top things to do in Lake Taupō. Reserve your scenic cruise here.
• Kayak out to the carvings
  This is an enjoyable half-day adventure that one of my friends raves about. After paddling out to the carvings and learning about their significance, there is time for other scenery, a snack, and even an optional swim. Reserve your kayak adventure here.
• Sail out to the carvings
  Multiple sailing vessels can bring you out to the carvings, and we have no personal experience with any, but the reviews for the two featured just below are both excellent.
  

Discover the Hidden Wonders of Orakei Korako

A bit off the beaten track, Orakei Korako is well worth the effort to get here. It’s my new favourite geothermal park and one of the best activities in Taupo.

Our adventure began with a short ferry ride across the serene Lake Ohakuri. From the first moment we stepped off the boat, I was captivated by the surreal landscape. What separates this from some of the other geothermal locations is the vast array of vivid colours, the vibrant terraces, bubbling mud pools, and silica formations. 

Orakei Korako is home to the southern hemisphere’s only geothermal cave (it’s one of two in the world). From the cave entrance, we looked down 35m into the geothermal pool at the bottom of the cave, easily seen even without a light. Cave entry is not permitted. 

The mud pools are beyond the cave.

We recommend making the time to get here, either from Taupō (30 min) or Rotorua (54 min)

Explore the Artistic Treasures At Lava Glass

Lava Glass is another one of the amazing Taupō attractions. While the activities here are all optional, and there is an entry fee for the glass sculpture gardens and the glass-blowing demonstration, I couldn’t possibly pick a favourite and was glad we did it all, including:

• Walk through the glass sculpture garden.
  Mixing art and nature, I found the glass sculpture garden to be a peaceful escape into a colourful wonderland.
• Watch a glass blower in action.
  Bringing the craft to life for use, we also took the opportunity to watch the impressive glass blower at work, creating a colourful bowl that will sit for about two days before it is complete. 
• Enjoy a coffee or light meal in the cafe.
  It was a lovely, sunny day when we visited, so we ate outdoors in the courtyard.
• Shop the large display of impressive glass art.

Experience the Thunderous Beauty of Huka Falls

Huka Falls is a breathtaking display of raw power, where the Waikato River narrows and plunges dramatically. The falls spill more than 220,000 litres of water per sec over the 11-meter-high waterfall. It’s another must-see among the many impressive natural Taupō attractions.

There are several ways to enjoy it, and Jeff and I chose to check out several of the viewpoints and just stare in wonder despite having stood here before. As always, we were awe-struck by the sheer force and deep turquoise hue of the water. It’s one of our favourite waterfalls in NZ.

We opted not to take either the thrilling jet boat or the cruise that brings people to the base of the falls. However, we have heard good things about both. If these interest you, reserve your jet boat ride here.

Stroll along the lake and catch a sunset

Lake Taupō, the largest lake in New Zealand, is a central hub for water activities and scenic walks. Jeff and I took a serene stroll along the waterfront but chose to watch the sunset over the lake from the private balcony in our accommodation. 

Explore the Cultural Gems of Taupō Museum and Art Gallery

With fabulous weather for our last visit, we spent nearly all our time outdoors and saved the museum for our next visit. However, remember, we live only a few hours away.

Here, you can discover more about Taupō’s rich history and culture, including insights into the region’s Māori heritage and volcanic landscapes. It’s a great way to appreciate the town’s past and present. Check out their official website for more information.

Soar Above with Skydive Taupō

Thrill seekers, a tandem skydive from 12,000 ft might be exactly what you need. Not only will you get a 45-second freefall, but you will also get a chance to enjoy incredible views over New Zealand’s largest lake.

Adrenaline junkies have told me this is one of the best of the activities in Taupō.

Check out all the details, plus you can reserve your often discounted skydive here.

Experience Tranquility at Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa

Another activity we have saved for our return visit is relaxing in the healing waters at Wairakei Terraces. Just thinking about soaking in any of the three adult-only (age 14 and over) pools rich in silica and minerals like sulphate, magnesium, and potassium, I can feel my stress diminish. Reserve your often discounted timed entry ticket here.

At the day spa, massage and facial options are available. Other activities include a self-guided terrace walk and a cafe.

Still want more Activities in TaupŌ?

If so, check out this list of free things to do in Taupō.

Where to stay in Taupō

There are tons of great options in Taupō, from small boutique accommodations to huge hotel chains and even backpackers. But for us, we have a favourite somewhere in the middle, leaning towards the upper end. 

Baycrest Thermal Lodge

This four-and-a-half-star, self-contained unit offers a surprise bit of luxury. The unit itself is lovely, with a kitchenette, a huge shower with impressive water pressure, a big bed, a TV and a sitting area both inside and out. We had a second-floor unit (room 12) with impressive lake views perfect for watching the sunset and a huge thermal bathtub in our bathroom. While the lower level units lose the view, they gain a private outdoor spa bath. 

But my favourite feature is the huge thermal pool. Heated to maintain a constant temperature, it was 40º when I dipped into it. I can’t stay long in that heat, but long enough to fully relax. Reserve your stay at Baycrest Thermal Lodge.

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What will be your favourite things to do in Taupō?

Photo Credits on this page

Photos on this page are either shot by our team and watermarked as such or supplied by Destination Great Lake Taupō and used with permission.