Things to do in Taupō

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Huka Falls showing a bridge and rapids as well as a large group of people
Huka Falls which includes a river or creek and boating as well as a small group of people
Craters of the Moon which includes mountains and a hot spring as well as a couple
Taupo featuring signage
Taupo Bungy which includes a park

Taupo Attractions

There's something rather magical about smaller cities. Whether you're on your way to Taupo for a weekend getaway or you're planning on staying longer, you'll soon fall in love with this place. In fact, with so many thrilling things to do and awesome attractions to see, you mightn't want to leave!

Find out what makes Taupo tick with some of the very best tours & day trips. Browse through our top {25 fun activities in Taupo fun activities in Taupo}, and book with ease knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

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Recommended things to do in Taupō

Number of things to do
25
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Escape Room Experience Taupo - The Cursed Cabin: $23
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Taupō

Free Things to Do in Taupo

Some say the best things in life are free. Make sure you explore the following around Taupo:

Waipahihi Botanical Gardens - If you enjoy nurturing your garden, this attraction will captivate your inner green thumb.

Things to Do in Taupo with Kids

There's fun for all the family in Taupo. Here are a few family friendly experiences you can enjoy together that are sure to make your vacation unforgettable:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Taupō? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Taupō

People gather at a hot spot in the Waikato river. Because of the geothermal activity in this area, this area of the lake is like a hot tub. #waikatoriver #geothermal #nature #newzealand #taupo #hotspot

Spa Thermal Park

4/5(1 review)

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Spa Thermal Park during your travels in Taupō.

Spa Thermal Park
Lake Taupo Museum and Art Gallery showing art and indigenous culture

Taupō Museum and Art Gallery

4.5/5(3 reviews)

Browse and purchase fascinating pieces of art and go on an exciting cultural journey at this popular museum and gallery.

Taupō Museum and Art Gallery

Taupō Hot Springs

4.5/5(10 reviews)

Enjoy an outing to Taupō Hot Springs during your stay in Taupō. Discover the mountain views and spas in this relaxing area.

Taupō Hot Springs

A.C. Baths

4.5/5(6 reviews)

You can learn about the history of Taupō with a trip to A.C. Baths. Discover the mountain views and spas in this relaxing area.

A.C. Baths

Taupō Marina and Boat Ramp

4.5/5(4 reviews)

Explore the waterfront in Taupō with a trip to Taupō Marina and Boat Ramp. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in the area.

Taupō Marina and Boat Ramp

Taupō i-SITE Visitor Information Centre

4.5/5(7 reviews)

Taupō i-SITE Visitor Information Centre is just one of the places to see in Taupō, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels?

Taupō i-SITE Visitor Information Centre

Wairakei Geothermal Power Station

4.5/5(3 reviews)

Walk around the campus at Wairakei Geothermal Power Station as part of your travels around Taupō. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Wairakei Geothermal Power Station

The Landing Lake Taupō

Enjoy an outing to The Landing Lake Taupō during your stay in Taupō.

The Landing Lake Taupō

Maori Carvings

4.5/5(10 reviews)

You can find out about the history of Taupō when you stop by Maori Carvings. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Maori Carvings

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Taupō

Taupo featuring a lake or waterhole

Taupō Central

While visiting Taupō Central, you might make a stop by sights like Taupō Marina and Boat Ramp and Lake Taupō.

Taupō Central
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Nukuhau

If you're spending some time in Nukuhau, Lake Taupō and Waikato River are top sights worth seeing.

Nukuhau
Some may have seen this in photos before, but no photo does it justice; or shows you the awesomeness quite like when you are standing directly on the side of the boat and within metres of this brilliant carving. I took a small boat that served treats, pizza and wine. Although travelling alone I was able to meet people on this trip very easily. I went on the Ernest Kemp Steamboat. Such character and lovely staff.

Acacia Bay

Lake views and restaurants are notable features of Acacia Bay. You might consider a stop by Lake Taupō while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Acacia Bay
Looking out across Lake Taupo at the Central North Island volcanoes, Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Tongariro. The town of Taupo is very nice, with plenty of cheap hostels, around $25-35 per night

Hilltop

If you're spending some time in Hilltop, Taupō Hot Springs and Lake Taupō are top sights worth seeing.

Hilltop
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Wharewaka

While visiting Wharewaka, you might make a stop by sights like Lake Taupō and The Landing Lake Taupō.

Wharewaka
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Waipahihi

If you're spending some time in Waipahihi, Lake Taupō and Waipahihi Botanical Gardens are top sights worth seeing.

Waipahihi
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Taupō

Wairakei which includes mist or fog as well as an individual femail

Wairakei

Huka Falls which includes rapids

Rotokawa

Frequently asked questions

Is Taupō worth visiting?
Taupō has a unique mix of attractions, local charm and culture. Whether you're into history, nature or local culinary flavors, there's plenty to enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Taupō?
Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa and Spa Thermal Park are two good places to kick-start your vacation adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and shopping options in Taupō while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Taupō?
The top tourist attraction in Taupō is Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa, so don't forget to add it to your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Taupō?
You can easily tour leading attractions like Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa, Spa Thermal Park and The Landing Lake Taupo with a three-day getaway in Taupō. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stick around longer and venture to Turangi.
Is Taupō a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Taupō, such as Spa Thermal Park and Maori Carvings, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Only 2 miles from central Taupō is Waipahihi and Two Mile Bay is 2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Taupō with kids?
If you're searching for sights and tours for all ages, check out these excellent ideas for what to do in Taupō with kids.

What to do in Taupō for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or outdoor explorer, there are lots of things to do in Taupō for adults.
Are there free things to do in Taupō?
One of the top ways to find free things to do in Taupō is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on vibrant neighborhoods, parks and other major attractions you can enjoy without opening your wallet. Spa Thermal Park is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.