Things to do in Taupo based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
Huka Falls, Taupo
Overview: Huka Falls is a powerful waterfall where the Waikato River narrows dramatically, creating thundering turquoise rapids just north of Lake Taupo.
History: The falls have long been a natural landmark shaped by volcanic geology and erosion over thousands of years.
Since When: Huka Falls has been a recognized natural attraction since the early days of tourism in Taupo in the late 19th century.
Review: Visitors consistently rate it highly for its dramatic views, accessibility, and photo opportunities.
When to Go: Year-round visits are ideal, with mornings offering fewer crowds and softer light for photography.
How to Go: Easily reached by car, bike, or shuttle from Taupo town center with nearby parking and walking paths.
What to Do: View the falls from bridges and lookout points, walk nearby trails, or take a jet boat ride upstream.
Free or Paid: Free.
Huka Falls Tracks, Taupo
Overview: Huka Falls Tracks are scenic walking and cycling trails following the Waikato River between Taupo and Huka Falls.
History: The tracks were developed to provide safe public access to the river corridor and surrounding natural scenery.
Since When: They have been open to the public for several decades as part of Taupo’s outdoor recreation network.
Review: Walkers and cyclists praise the trails for being well-maintained, peaceful, and visually stunning.
When to Go: Morning and late afternoon are best for comfortable temperatures and quieter paths.
How to Go: Accessible from multiple entry points in Taupo by foot, bike, or car.
What to Do: Walk, jog, cycle, enjoy river views, and stop at lookout points along the way.
Free or Paid: Free.
Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa, Taupo
Overview: Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa is a geothermal attraction featuring silica terraces, thermal pools, and spa treatments.
History: The site was created to showcase geothermal features similar to the historic Pink and White Terraces lost in the 1886 eruption.
Since When: It has been welcoming visitors since the early 2000s.
Review: Guests enjoy the relaxing thermal pools, cultural elements, and unique geothermal setting.
When to Go: Cooler months and evenings are ideal for enjoying the warm mineral waters.
How to Go: Located a short drive north of Taupo, easily accessible by car or tour transport.
What to Do: Soak in thermal pools, explore the terraces, and enjoy spa treatments.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Craters of the Moon, Taupo
Overview: Craters of the Moon is a geothermal reserve featuring steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
History: The area’s geothermal activity increased due to nearby power development, transforming it into a unique attraction.
Since When: It has been open to visitors as a managed reserve since the late 20th century.
Review: Visitors appreciate its otherworldly scenery, informative walkways, and easy access.
When to Go: Morning visits are best for clearer views and fewer visitors.
How to Go: A short drive from Taupo town with designated parking and boardwalk entry.
What to Do: Walk the loop track, observe geothermal features, and learn about volcanic activity.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Taupo Tandem Skydiving, Taupo
Overview: Taupo Tandem Skydiving offers adrenaline-filled jumps with panoramic views of Lake Taupo, volcanoes, and alpine landscapes.
History: The operation was established to capitalize on Taupo’s clear skies and dramatic scenery for adventure tourism.
Since When: It has been operating since the early 1990s, making it one of New Zealand’s premier skydiving experiences.
Review: Participants rate it extremely highly for professionalism, safety, and unforgettable views.
When to Go: Summer and clear-weather days provide the best visibility and flight conditions.
How to Go: Transport is usually provided from Taupo town to the drop zone.
What to Do: Experience a tandem skydive, capture photos or video, and enjoy the thrill of freefall.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Wairakei Resort Taupo, Taupo
Overview: Wairakei Resort Taupo is a historic lakeside resort offering accommodation, geothermal pools, golf facilities, and scenic natural surroundings.
History: The resort was originally developed to accommodate workers involved in the nearby geothermal power station and later expanded into a leisure destination.
Since When: Wairakei Resort has been welcoming guests since the 1960s.
Review: Guests appreciate its spacious grounds, peaceful atmosphere, and range of recreational facilities.
When to Go: Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and warm weather.
How to Go: Located a short drive north of Taupo town, easily accessible by car.
What to Do: Stay overnight, swim in thermal pools, play golf, and explore nearby attractions.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Huka Honey Hive, Taupo
Overview: Huka Honey Hive is a specialty retail attraction showcasing premium New Zealand honey products, including Manuka honey.
History: It was established to promote locally produced honey and educate visitors about beekeeping and honey benefits.
Since When: The Honey Hive has been operating since the early 2000s.
Review: Visitors enjoy the informative displays, tasting opportunities, and high-quality products.
When to Go: Daytime visits year-round are ideal, especially when exploring nearby Huka Falls.
How to Go: Easily accessible by car from Taupo with parking available on-site.
What to Do: Learn about honey production, sample honey varieties, and purchase local products.
Free or Paid: Free entry, paid purchases.
Huka Prawn Park, Taupo
Overview: Huka Prawn Park is a family-friendly attraction combining freshwater prawn fishing, dining, and adventure activities.
History: It was created as a unique aquaculture-based attraction using geothermal water to farm prawns.
Since When: The park has been open to visitors since the 1980s.
Review: Families praise its fun activities, interactive experiences, and relaxed outdoor setting.
When to Go: Summer months and weekends are best for enjoying all outdoor activities.
How to Go: Located north of Taupo, easily reachable by car with on-site parking.
What to Do: Catch prawns, enjoy jet boat rides, dine at the restaurant, and explore play areas.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort, Taupo
Overview: Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort is a popular holiday park featuring thermal pools, waterslides, accommodation, and spa facilities.
History: The resort evolved from traditional thermal bathing grounds into a modern family-focused spa destination.
Since When: It has been operating as a resort since the mid-20th century.
Review: Visitors consistently highlight its clean facilities, fun water attractions, and family-friendly environment.
When to Go: Year-round visits are suitable, with cooler months ideal for soaking in thermal pools.
How to Go: Located just outside Taupo town and easily accessible by car.
What to Do: Relax in hot pools, enjoy waterslides, stay overnight, and book spa treatments.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Hukafalls Jet Taupo, Taupo
Overview: Hukafalls Jet Taupo offers high-speed jet boat rides delivering thrilling spins and close-up views of Huka Falls.
History: The jet boating operation was established to showcase the Waikato River while providing adrenaline-based tourism.
Since When: It has been operating since the late 1980s.
Review: Riders rate it highly for excitement, skilled drivers, and unforgettable scenery.
When to Go: Clear-weather days throughout the year are ideal for the best river conditions.
How to Go: Located near Huka Falls and accessible by car or shuttle from Taupo.
What to Do: Take a jet boat ride, experience high-speed maneuvers, and view Huka Falls up close.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Rapids Jet, Taupo
Overview: Rapids Jet is a high-adrenaline jet boat experience that races through the narrow Waikato River canyon with spins, speed, and dramatic scenery.
History: The attraction was developed to offer an alternative extreme jet boating route distinct from the Huka Falls area.
Since When: Rapids Jet has been operating since the early 2000s.
Review: Visitors consistently praise the thrilling ride, skilled drivers, and close-to-nature river experience.
When to Go: Year-round operation is available, with calmer weather days offering the smoothest rides.
How to Go: Located a short drive from Taupo town, easily accessible by car.
What to Do: Take a jet boat ride, enjoy high-speed maneuvers, and admire river canyon views.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Orakei Korako Geothermal Park & Cave, Taupo
Overview: Orakei Korako Geothermal Park & Cave is a spectacular geothermal area featuring silica terraces, geysers, hot springs, and an underground thermal cave.
History: The area has long been known for its geothermal activity and was developed for tourism with conservation in mind.
Since When: It has been open to visitors as a managed attraction since the late 20th century.
Review: Visitors rate it highly for its pristine landscapes, boardwalk access, and unique geothermal cave.
When to Go: Morning visits are best for fewer crowds and clearer views of geothermal features.
How to Go: Located about 30 minutes from Taupo, accessible by car followed by a short boat crossing.
What to Do: Walk boardwalks, explore geothermal features, visit the thermal cave, and take photographs.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs, Taupo
Overview: Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs is a family-friendly thermal bathing complex with mineral pools, waterslides, and spa facilities.
History: The hot springs evolved from traditional thermal bathing sites into a modern recreational attraction.
Since When: The complex has been operating in its current form since the mid-20th century.
Review: Guests appreciate the clean facilities, relaxing pools, and variety of attractions for all ages.
When to Go: Cooler months and evenings are ideal for enjoying the warm thermal waters.
How to Go: Located just outside Taupo town and easily reachable by car.
What to Do: Soak in mineral pools, enjoy waterslides, relax in private spas, and unwind.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Lava Glass – Glassblowing Studio, Sculpture Garden, Art Gallery, Café, Taupo
Overview: Lava Glass is a creative attraction featuring live glassblowing demonstrations, an outdoor sculpture garden, an art gallery, and a café.
History: It was founded by local glass artist Chris Danger to showcase contemporary glass art inspired by volcanic landscapes.
Since When: Lava Glass has been open to the public since the early 2000s.
Review: Visitors enjoy the artistic atmosphere, unique sculptures, and engaging live demonstrations.
When to Go: Daytime visits are best to fully explore the gallery and garden in natural light.
How to Go: Located near Wairakei and easily accessible by car from Taupo.
What to Do: Watch glassblowing, stroll the sculpture garden, browse the gallery, and enjoy coffee.
Free or Paid: Free entry, paid workshops and purchases.
Aratiatia Rapids, Taupo
Overview: Aratiatia Rapids is a dramatic stretch of river that transforms from a calm stream into roaring rapids during scheduled dam releases.
History: The rapids are controlled by the Aratiatia Dam, creating a unique man-made natural spectacle.
Since When: Public viewing of scheduled releases has been available since the dam’s construction in the 1960s.
Review: Visitors are impressed by the sudden transformation and powerful rush of water.
When to Go: Visit during scheduled release times for the full rapids experience.
How to Go: Accessible by car from Taupo with short walking tracks to viewing platforms.
What to Do: Watch the dam release, walk nearby trails, and take photos of the rapids.
Free or Paid: Free.
Lake Taupo Holiday Resort, Taupo
Overview: Lake Taupo Holiday Resort is a family-friendly lakeside accommodation offering cabins, campsites, thermal pools, and recreational facilities.
History: The resort developed as part of Taupo’s growth as a holiday destination focused on outdoor and lake-based tourism.
Since When: It has been operating as a holiday park since the mid-20th century.
Review: Guests commonly highlight the convenient location, clean amenities, and suitability for families and groups.
When to Go: Summer months are ideal for lake activities, while winter is popular for thermal pool use.
How to Go: Located near Taupo town and easily accessible by car from the main highway.
What to Do: Stay overnight, swim in thermal pools, enjoy playgrounds, and access Lake Taupo activities.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Two Mile Bay Sailing Club, Taupo
Overview: Two Mile Bay Sailing Club is a relaxed lakeside venue combining sailing, watersports, dining, and social events.
History: Originally established as a sailing club, it evolved into a popular community and visitor hangout.
Since When: The club has operated at Two Mile Bay since the late 20th century.
Review: Visitors enjoy the casual atmosphere, lake views, and food and drink offerings.
When to Go: Late afternoons and evenings in summer are best for sunsets and social events.
How to Go: Located a short drive from Taupo town and accessible by car or bicycle.
What to Do: Go sailing, enjoy watersports, dine by the lake, and attend events.
Free or Paid: Free entry, paid activities and food.
Chris Jolly Outdoors, Taupo
Overview: Chris Jolly Outdoors is a leading adventure tourism company offering jet boating, rafting, fishing, and scenic cruises.
History: Founded by local adventurer Chris Jolly, the company helped pioneer commercial jet boating on the Waikato River.
Since When: It has been operating since the 1980s.
Review: Customers consistently rate the experiences highly for safety, excitement, and knowledgeable guides.
When to Go: Year-round availability, with summer being the most popular season.
How to Go: Tours depart from Taupo town or designated river locations reachable by car.
What to Do: Take jet boat rides, go river rafting, enjoy fishing trips, and scenic cruises.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Hilton Lake Taupo, Taupo
Overview: Hilton Lake Taupo is a luxury hotel offering upscale accommodation, spa facilities, dining, and panoramic lake views.
History: The hotel was developed as part of Taupo’s expansion into premium tourism and hospitality.
Since When: It has been welcoming guests since the early 2000s.
Review: Guests praise the elegant rooms, excellent service, and scenic surroundings.
When to Go: Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying outdoor spaces and lake views.
How to Go: Located just outside Taupo town and easily accessible by car.
What to Do: Stay overnight, relax at the spa, dine on-site, and enjoy lake views.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Hukafalls Jet, Taupo
Overview: Hukafalls Jet is a world-famous jet boat ride offering high-speed thrills and close-up views of Huka Falls.
History: It is one of the original jet boating experiences in New Zealand, helping establish Taupo as an adventure hub.
Since When: Hukafalls Jet has been operating since the 1950s.
Review: Visitors consistently describe it as an exhilarating must-do experience with skilled drivers.
When to Go: Operates year-round, with clear weather offering the best views of the falls.
How to Go: Located near Huka Falls and reachable by car from Taupo.
What to Do: Take a jet boat ride, experience high-speed spins, and view Huka Falls up close.
Free or Paid: Paid.
AJ Hackett Taupo Bungy & Swing, Taupo
Overview: AJ Hackett Taupo Bungy & Swing is a world-renowned adventure attraction offering the thrill of bungy jumping and the swing over the Waikato River.
History: It was established by AJ Hackett, the pioneer of commercial bungy jumping, bringing extreme adventure tourism to Taupo.
Since When: Operating since the early 1980s.
Review: Visitors rate it as an adrenaline-packed experience with stunning river and waterfall views.
When to Go: Best to visit during daylight hours for optimal scenery and safety conditions.
How to Go: Located near Taupo town and accessible by car, taxi, or shuttle services.
What to Do: Take part in bungy jumping, the giant swing, and sky swings for extreme thrills.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Sail Barbary – Eco Sailing Taupo, Taupo
Overview: Sail Barbary offers eco-friendly sailing experiences on Lake Taupo with a focus on scenic and sustainable tours.
History: The company was created to provide relaxing, environmentally conscious sailing adventures on New Zealand’s largest lake.
Since When: Operating since the early 2000s.
Review: Guests praise the peaceful cruises, knowledgeable crew, and eco-conscious approach.
When to Go: Morning and late afternoon are ideal for calm winds and beautiful light.
How to Go: Departures are from the lakefront near Taupo town, accessible by car or foot.
What to Do: Sail the lake, enjoy sightseeing, and learn about local ecology.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Tongariro North Domain, Taupo
Overview: Tongariro North Domain is a public recreational park offering sports fields, walking tracks, and open green spaces.
History: Established as a central community park for sports and leisure activities in Taupo.
Since When: It has been in use since the mid-20th century.
Review: Visitors appreciate the open spaces, clean environment, and accessibility for outdoor activities.
When to Go: Daytime hours year-round, particularly in summer for sports and picnics.
How to Go: Located in Taupo town, easily accessible on foot, bike, or car.
What to Do: Play sports, walk, picnic, or enjoy community events.
Free or Paid: Free.
Spa Thermal Park, Taupo
Overview: Spa Thermal Park features natural thermal pools and hot springs along the Waikato River for public relaxation.
History: The site has long been used for its geothermal springs and was developed for public access and recreation.
Since When: Open to the public since the early 20th century.
Review: Visitors enjoy the warm pools, scenic riverside setting, and therapeutic benefits.
When to Go: Best during cooler months or early mornings for a peaceful experience.
How to Go: Located in central Taupo and accessible by foot, bike, or car.
What to Do: Soak in natural thermal pools, relax, and enjoy the riverside scenery.
Free or Paid: Free.
Lake Taupo Hole in One Challenge, Taupo
Overview: The Lake Taupo Hole in One Challenge is a golf challenge event offering participants the chance to achieve a hole-in-one on selected courses.
History: Designed as a competitive and fun golfing challenge attracting local and visiting players.
Since When: Active since the 2010s.
Review: Golfers enjoy the excitement, challenge, and potential prizes associated with the event.
When to Go: During golfing season and scheduled event days.
How to Go: Held at Taupo golf courses, accessible by car or taxi from the town center.
What to Do: Participate in the challenge, practice golf skills, and compete for prizes.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Rapids Jet Taupō, Taupo
Overview: Rapids Jet Taupō offers high-speed jet boat rides providing close-up views of Huka Falls and the Waikato River rapids.
History: Established as one of the premier adventure tourism companies in Taupo for thrill-seekers.
Since When: Operating since the late 20th century.
Review: Visitors consistently describe the experience as exhilarating, safe, and scenic.
When to Go: Year-round, with calmer weather improving the viewing experience.
How to Go: Located near Huka Falls, accessible by car or guided tour transfers from Taupo.
What to Do: Ride the jet boat, experience spins and high-speed maneuvers, and view Huka Falls closely.
Free or Paid: Paid.