What to do in Taupō

GEOTHERMAL EXPERIENCES TO MAKE YOU OOH AND AHH

CRATERS OF THE MOON: A 45-minute looped walkway skims past steaming craters and vents. Add on a 20-minute walk to the upper lookout for jaw-dropping views.

WAIRĀKEI TERRACES: Combine Māori culture with pink, blue and white silica terraces at this man-made replica of the original. Afterward, relax in the thermal pools.

ŌRAKEI KŌRAKO: Between Taupō and Rotorua, explore a landscape of geysers, hot springs, mud pools and silica terraces. A short ferry ride crosses the lake to the start of the walk.

Colourful craters, Ōrakei Kōrako Geothermal Park © Ōrakei Kōrako Geothermal Park

HOW TO SPEND 24 HOURS IN TAUPŌ

MORNING

Taupō town centre is a relaxed, lakeside bubble, with free parking and pedestrian-friendly streets. Everything is in walkable distance so start the day with breakfast at a lake-facing café and enjoy a good mooch.

NOON

Visit Lake Taupō Museum and Art Gallery for an insight into Taupō’s local heritage. The complex also includes the Ora Garden of Wellbeing, a Chelsea Flower Show winner. Afterward, lunch at McDonalds. Yes, you read that right. Taupō hosts one of Macca’s most unusual venues – with seating in a retired, life-size airplane. AFTERNOON The 14-metre-high Mine Bay Māori rock carving can only be seen from the water. Rent a kayak and use your own brawn to get there. You’ll paddle past pumice cliffs and hidden bays while slicing through crystalline water. Motorised kayaks are also available.

EVENING

In summer, book a sunset cruise on the lake or fine dine at The Bistro. For low-key munching, you can’t look past the craft beers and barbecued tucker at Southern Meat Kitchen. For a nightcap with a view, The Deck is the only bar in town that boasts panoramic vistas across the lake.

Taupō Bungy & Swing, Taupō © Mead Norton

TOP FAMILY EXPERIENCES

TAUPŌ KARTS: Race your whānau in 390cc karts. Twoseater karts and children’s karts are also available.

ROCK N’ ROPE: A high wire ropes course for all ages. Choose from the trapeze, high log, giant swing or the ultimate rock drop.

TIMBERLINE RACING SIBERIAN HUSKIES: Learn all about Siberian Husky dogs, meet adorable puppies and watch an eight-dog running team in action.

TAUPŌ DEBRETTS HOT SPRINGS: Kids can swoosh down the hydroslides while adults bathe in healing mineral pools and hit up the spa.

MIND JUNCTION: Home to a giant maze, discovery centre, LEGO® display, mini-golf course and flight simulator.

Māori rock art © Destination Great Lake Taupō

Main Image: Ora Garden, Taupō Museum © Destination Great Lake Taupō