Top Taupo Outdoor Activities
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New Zealand is world renowned as the capital of adventure activities and the central Taupo region is one of its most action-loving destinations. Whether you fancy getting soaked, taking to the skies or keeping your feet firmly on solid ground, here’s a rundown of the outdoor activities on offer in Taupo.
On the water
With the enormous Lake Taupo at its heart, it’s no surprise that water activities are abundant in Taupo. Boating, kayaking, parasailing, wakeboarding and trout fishing are all popular lake activities, or else head to the Huka Falls or nearby Aratiatia Rapids for an high octane jet boating or white water rafting experience.
In the air
Taupo’s hair-raising selection of airborne activities are not for the faint-hearted, but if you want to get your heart racing there’s plenty to challenge even the bravest travelers. Test your nerve on New Zealand’s highest water touch bungee jump; try skydiving, paragliding or hot air ballooning; or enjoy a scenic helicopter ride over the lake.
On the ground
The Taupo region has some of the country’s best hiking and mountain biking trails, including heli-hiking and heli-biking for more adventurous trekkers. Horse riding, quad biking and rock climbing are also options in the countryside surrounding the lake, or head just south of Lake Taupo to tackle the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the country’s most famous day hikes.
Read MoreShow LessOn the water
With the enormous Lake Taupo at its heart, it’s no surprise that water activities are abundant in Taupo. Boating, kayaking, parasailing, wakeboarding and trout fishing are all popular lake activities, or else head to the Huka Falls or nearby Aratiatia Rapids for an high octane jet boating or white water rafting experience.
In the air
Taupo’s hair-raising selection of airborne activities are not for the faint-hearted, but if you want to get your heart racing there’s plenty to challenge even the bravest travelers. Test your nerve on New Zealand’s highest water touch bungee jump; try skydiving, paragliding or hot air ballooning; or enjoy a scenic helicopter ride over the lake.
On the ground
The Taupo region has some of the country’s best hiking and mountain biking trails, including heli-hiking and heli-biking for more adventurous trekkers. Horse riding, quad biking and rock climbing are also options in the countryside surrounding the lake, or head just south of Lake Taupo to tackle the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the country’s most famous day hikes.
23 results | All Taupo Tours
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Maori Rock Carvings - Taupo Sailing Adventures - Sail Fearless
266
Sail Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake, and get up close to the Māori Rock Carvings on this sailing tour. Aboard Fearless, a sleek ketch boat, you’ll set sail on the impossibly blue Lake Taupo at the heart of the North Island. Choose to rig and hoist the mainsail with the crew, or sit back and let the views wash over you as you sail to the secluded spot where Māori figures have been etched into the rock face.
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From
$28.67
From
$28.67
Daily Scenic Maori Rock Carving Cruise Taupo
198
Cruise around the scenic bays of Lake Taupo and admire the Maori Rock Carvings during this boat tour. Aboard the boat, listen to informative commentary about the ecology, volcanology, and cultural history of the area. Admire the impressive views of the snowy mountain tops of the UNESCO-listed Tongariro National Park and Lake Taupo's picturesque shores. See the Maori Rock Carvings depicting the legends of the local Tuwharetoa tribe. Choose from morning departure (includes tea) or afternoon departure (includes a fishing demonstration).
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From
$25.08
From
$25.08
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Learn More
Maori Rock Carvings Eco Sailing Taupo
476
Relax aboard a sailing yacht on Great Lake Taupo during this sightseeing cruise to Maori rock carvings. Accessible solely by water, this impressive rock art on the cliffs of Mine Bay was created by a master carver in 1976. You’ll come up close to the 22-foot-high (10-meter) gallery and enjoy postcard views from the deck. Relax with a complimentary glass of wine or beer if you sail in the evening.
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From
$35.12
From
$35.12
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
Learn More
Maori Rock Carvings Scenic Cruise
304
Carved in the 1970s by one of Aotearoa’s master Māori carvers, the Mine Bay rock carvings are a striking Taupō attraction. They’re also impossible to access on foot, so hop on board a charming replica steamboat and take a scenic cruise out to the carvings instead. Learn all about the history and the myths behind the carvings from your steamboat crew, and along the way enjoy pristine views of Lake Taupō and beyond, including the nearby volcanoes Tongariro, Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe.
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From
$25.08
From
$25.08
Half-Day Kayak to the Maori Rock Carvings in Lake Taupo
46
Paddle a kayak to the magnificent Maori rock carvings on Lake Taupo with a half-day tour from Acacia Bay. You’ll learn the cultural significance behind the towering inscriptions, which were completed in 1980, and enjoy great views across the crystal-clear lake to the Tongariro Mountains. Approaching the Maori rock carvings by kayak means you can see them up close, passing native bush and tiny inlets, then floating right at the base of the cliff. Both morning and afternoon departures are available and beginning paddlers are welcome.
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From
$82.42
From
$82.42
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Learn More
Hukafalls Jet Boat Ride from Taupo
274
Spin and speed your way to Huka Falls during a thrilling jetboat ride on the Waikato River. Hold on tight as you zip over the crystal-clear waters past rugged cliffs and native bush on New Zealand's longest river. Feel the power of the thundering waterfall up close as it blasts into the turbulent pool. Round-trip transport is included from hotels in Taupo.
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From
$77.32
From
$77.32
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Learn More
Cruise Kakariki to the Maori Rock Carvings
10
We have been cruising to the iconic Maori Rock Carvings since 1982.
This all-year-round activity offers relaxation, fun and adventure on the water, the Kiwi way. Get right up close to this culturally significant 46 foot (14m) high rock art.
Excellent, amusing and current commentary on Lake Taupo, the volcanoes and the carvings.
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From
$29.41
From
$29.41
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Learn More
The Maori Carvings Half Day Kayak
125
Take in the scenery of Lake Taupo during this half-day kayaking tour from Taupo. After a brief paddling lesson, set out in your kayak from Jerusalem Bay. Follow your guide along the shoreline of New Zealand’s largest lake to rock cliffs where you can see Maori carvings. Stop at a scenic spot for snacks and an optional swim on a tour that is suitable for all levels of experience.
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From
$82.42
From
$82.42
Taupo Adventure Combo: Jet Boat Ride and Whitewater Rafting
22
Enjoy a thrilling combo of 2 of Taupo's best water activities. You’ll have the time of your life with each adrenaline-charged experience: Spin out to Huka Falls on a Waikato River jet-boat ride and go whitewater rafting on the Tongariro River. With professional guides and all equipment provided, you’ll see all angles of Taupo’s great outdoors.
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From
$172.74
From
$172.74
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More
Self-Guided Geothermal Tour in Orakei Korako
35
Experience the thrill of New Zealand’s volcanic landscapes on a self-guided tour of the Orakei Korako geothermal area. Follow the 1.5-mile (2.5km) boardwalk around the park and stop to admire startling silica terraces, peer into bubbling mud pools and watch hissing geysers. Be sure not to miss the Ruatapu Cave, one of only two geothermal caves in the world and home to a mesmerizing thermal mirror pool.
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From
$28.67
From
$28.67
Waikato River Jet Boat Ride
1095
Zoom over the waters of the Waikato River on a jet boat during this 35-minute excursion. With a guide in the lead to providing commentary on the local sights, surf the Nga Awapurua Rapids, shoot through canyons, and admire the purity of the clear waters. This small-group tour can accommodate 11 people per boat.
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From
$76.68
From
$76.68
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Learn More
Lake Taupo 12,000-Foot Tandem Skydiving
266
Experience the thrill of freefalling from 12,000 feet (3,660 meters) above Lake Taupo on this New Zealand tandem skydiving adventure. Prepare for your flight with pickup in a stretch Hummer, then gear up and gather your courage on the flight up to altitude. After jumping from the plane with a tandem master, enjoy 40 exhilarating seconds of freefall followed by unbeatable views of both coasts and the volcanoes of Tongariro National Park as you glide back to earth by parachute.
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From
$205.08
From
$205.08
2-Hour Waikato River Guided Kayak Trip from Taupo
129
Take a low-key kayaking ride on the Waikato—New Zealand’s longest river—while stopping at swimming holes, nature reserves, a bungy drop zone, and thermal springs. Travel in a small group with a guide who takes you to some of the river’s most beautiful and tranquil spots. The relaxing, relatively short 2-hour ride tends to work very well for traveling families.
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From
$49.45
From
$49.45
Interactive Family Friendly Activities Pass in Taupo
38
Learn how tropical prawns are bred, farmed, and harvested on this tour of the Huka Prawn Park in Taupo. Enjoy access to all-day prawn fishing, allowing you to catch and keep as many as you want. Explore the park's water features, pedal boats, walking paths, and geothermal foot bath. Admission valid anytime during opening hours; tours depart hourly.
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From
$18.38
From
$18.38
Tongariro Alpine Crossing Shuttle Options
33
Trek across stark volcanic terrain on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. This independent day hike takes you past Mt Tongariro with an optional side trip to the summit of Mt Ngauruhoe, located within the World Heritage area of Tongariro National Park. You’re provided with a round-trip transfer, map and information sheet to prepare you for the 6- to 10-hour trek. Early morning shuttle service is available from your accommodation in Taupo or Turangi, or from the Base Camp or Ketetahi parking lots.
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From
$25.08
From
$25.08
Kayak the Waikato River Taupo
15
Searching for a convenient and relaxing way to explore the longest river in New Zealand, the Waikato? Discover the secret beauty of the river on this kayaking tour. Spend roughly two hours winding through the river’s slow-moving waters past forests, islands, swimming holes, and the famous Taupo Bungy platform. Finish the tour by soaking in natural hot springs and a enjoying a refreshment at a riverside campground.
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From
$60.92
From
$60.92
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Learn More
Taupo Highlights Tour - Go Explore Scenic
13
See the top sights of the Lake Taupo area on a full-day tour that's ideal for those with limited time. With a guide, you'll visit Huka Falls, see geothermal attractions, take a cruise on the lake to the Maori rock carvings, and enjoy lunch and snacks.
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From
$176.42
Price varies by group size
From
$176.42
Price varies by group size
Duck N Dive Combo Sky Diving and White Water Rafting
8
Get an adrenaline rush in the air and on the water during a full-day combination tour that features sky diving and white water rafting. Experience two of the most beautiful places on the North Island as you skydive from 12,000 feet within view of Lake Taupo. Then transfer to Turangi for a rafting trip that takes on class III rapids along the Tongariro River.
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From
$261.59
From
$261.59
Maori Rock Carvings - Taupo Sailing Adventures - Kindred Spirit
8
Experience the beauty of a scenic sailing tour to the Māori Rock Carvings, one of the most extraordinary contemporary carvings in the world. Only view-able from the water, the likeness of Ngātoroirangi towers 14-meters above Lake Taupō, surrounded by over 40 smaller carvings..
Escape from hectic life for a while and enjoy the breathtaking views around.
Relax on Lake Taupōs largest charter yacht “Kindred Spirit” and enjoy the superior comfort with a large deck space and a lounge under deck for up to 12 people.
Listen to our experienced skippers and learn about the history of the lake. Give the crew a hand hoisting the sails and take a turn on the wheel or just snuggle under some blankets and enjoy the wide selection of drinks.
Kindred Spirit sails under full sails as much as possible or gently meanders, when it is truly calm, by a quite inboard diesel engine.
Take a dip and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the largest freshwater lake in Australasia (weather dependent).
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From
$36.02
From
$36.02
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Learn More
Stand Up Paddle Board Hire - Lake Taupo
3
Enjoy Lake Taupo in an active yet relaxing way with a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rental. You can set off across the water at your own pace, paddling along the shore or checking out sights such as the Maori Rock Carvings.
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From
$35.12
From
$35.12
Lake Taupo - Maori Rock Carvings Package (Mountain Biking & Kayaking)
2
Explore the northeastern end of Lake Taupo by both land and water with a combo bike and kayak tour from Taupo. You'll start by biking from Acacia Bay to Kinloch along the W2K section of the Great Lake Trail on a 2- to 2.5-hour ride. Then enjoy lunch before hopping in a kayak to paddle from Whakaipo Bay to the Maori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay.
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From
$279.50
From
$279.50
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Learn More
Big Splash COMBO Bungy Jump and Rafting
1
Bungee jumping and white water rafting are two of the most thrilling adventure tourism activities in New Zealand. This tour package offers the chance to try both in just one day in the beautiful surrounds of Turangi and Taupo. After jumping from one of the highest bungee platforms in New Zealand, visitors enjoy an exhilarating rafting experience through pristine wilderness only accessible by boat.
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From
$198.47
From
$198.47
Waitomo Caves Day Trip, Option to Add Hobbiton ex Taupo
You can design your own ideal day with a full-day tour from Taupo to Waitomo. Choose between Waitomo Glowworm Cave, Ruakuri Cave and or Hobbiton!
At the famous Waitomo Caves Waitomo Glowworm Cave, you will skip the queues and ride a boat beneath thousands of twinkling glowworms in the famous Waitomo Cave
Choose to either have free time in Waitomo and stroll through native forests and the spectacular limestone landscape or visit the nearby Ruakuri cave. The vast Ruakuri Cave features waterfalls and limestone formations.
Feeling adventurous? Join us for a sensational underground Black Water Rafting Adventure, floating down an underground stream on a rubber tube admiring the glowworms above.
Choose to add on Hobbiton Movie Set (2-hour guided tour) and drink at the Green Toad on completion. Finish your day in Taupo.
Please note; If you do not want to join the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour you will have a 2-hour wait at Hobbiton
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From
$183.03
From
$183.03