Embrace adventure in the heart of the North Island/Te Ika-a-Māui and discover stunning sun-swept hills and the crystal waters of the lake of Taupō. A volcanic caldera, Lake Taupō is not only picture-perfect in the way that its turquoise waters sparkle in the sun—it’s also home to a plethora of activities for all kinds of travellers. Jump in your Hertz rental car and get going to explore the town of Taupō and all the adventures on offer.
Embrace the Warmth of Geothermal Pools
Taupō’s long and treasured history can be found right in the heart of the town at the iconic geothermal pools. The remnants of a volcanic eruption nearly two thousand years ago, Taupō’s geothermal pools are welcoming reminders of a past that can be found nurtured within the environment. The geothermal valley that is the Craters of the Moon is a natural phenomenon that is filled with geysers, steaming craters and boiling mud pools. You can observe these majestic forces of nature from the viewing platform and watch from a safe distance as the earth comes alive and leaps up to the sky. Another must-see geothermal wonderland is the Orakei Korako Cave and Thermal Park. This geothermal field is also known as the Hidden Valley, and with just one step into this natural playground you’ll discover why. To reach Orakei Korako Cave & Thermal Park | Activity in Taupō, New Zealand the geothermal valley, a short ferry trip will take you over the peaceful Lake Ohakuri and toward this hidden gem. On arrival, prepare to be amazed by the wonderful colours and incredible power of these beasts of nature that erupt from the earth around you.
Adventure Down Huka Falls
You can’t visit Taupō without experiencing the divine thrill of Huka Falls. From the enormous Lake Taupō, water flows into Waikato River - New Zealand/Aotearoa’s longest river - and calmly gathers speed before hitting Huka Falls. The shallow ravine of hard volcanic rock just before the drop creates an explosion of water over the edge of the falls and results in a phenomenon of sound, colourand awe. This is the kind of waterfall you’regoing to have to see to believe. There are many ways for visitors to explore Huka Falls, like hiking the Spa Park to Huka Falls trail or jumping aboard a river cruise. For the ultimate experience of the ferocity of Huka Falls, you can’tgo past a jet boat ride. The boat grants you close access to the base of the falls for water-level views, as well as cruising you along the river, giving you the chance to observethe lush native bush and surrounding environment that envelops the majestic falls.
Explore the Māori Rock Carvings
From a thrill-filled boat ride to a scenic lake cruise, this next adventure is an unmissable activity when you’re in Taupō. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Taupō with a Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings tour. These contemporary Māori artworks speak to both the extended history and the ongoing vital significance of Māori culture in Taupō and across New Zealand. Created by artist Matahi Brightwell, the carvings tower up to 14 metres above the surface of Lake Taupō and are only able to be visited by boat. There are plenty of options to tour the carvings on a canoe or kayak, however if you want to sit back, relax and float with the breeze as you take in the unique surroundings, the best way to experience the carvings is on a scenic boat cruise.
Discover Lake Taupō
No matter where you find yourself in Taupō, you won’t be far from the lake that is the town’s namesake. Roughly the same size as Singapore, Lake Taupō is brimming with water-based activities and land-bound adventures. Whether it’s walking the lake’s shores or hiring a kayak to explore the pristine waters, the lake’s spectacular scenery is sure to surround you the entire time. A must-do activity on Lake Taupō is jumping atop a stand-up paddleboard and cruising your way across the water's surface at whatever pace you choose. This is a perfect way to guide your own adventure, all while soaking up the stunning landscape around the lake. Our final thing to do in Taupō will be the cherry on top of your holiday, and it’s soaking up the beauty of Lake Taupō with a picnic on the lake’s banks and a setting sun across the horizon. There’s no better view in town than the lakefront at sunset as the golden light streams over the aquamarine of the lake before you.
Whether it’s experiencing the rush of the majestic Huka Falls or learning more about Māori history around Lake Taupō, all that you need to discover the top things to do in Taupō is your Hertz rental car and an appetite for adventure.
