Things to do in Taupo
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Top 10 attractions in Taupo
Lake Taupo
Lake Taupo is New Zealand's largest lake, located on a volcanic plateau in the central North Island. The upper reaches of the Waikato River (known as the Tongariro (Tongariro) River) enters from the south, and the lake flows from the northeast of the lake through the Waikato River. The lake water covers several craters. There are many geothermal hot springs around the lake, which are either used for recuperation or used to generate electricity. Built the Waikato River Hydroelectric Power Plant.Turangi · 18.6 km from Taupo
Huka Falls
Huka Falls is situated on the upper reaches of the Waikato River where it flows out of Lake Taupo. The river, originally wide, is suddenly narrowed by a canyon here, causing the water to build up immense pressure and speed as it surges through the gorge and plunges over the cliff at the end. The rushing water displays a rare light sapphire blue color, contrasting sharply with the churning white foam. Its name means "foam" in Māori. Walking trails and viewing platforms are available on both banks, allowing you to admire this blue-and-white water curtain from different angles. The pedestrian bridge above the water faces the main current directly, making it an ideal spot for a panoramic view and photos. For a closer experience, you can also take a jet boat or sightseeing cruise to the edge of the pool and feel the power of the mist. You can easily access it from the center of Taupo, or walk along the riverbank trail to watch the Waikato River transform from calm to raging, offering visitors a visually striking natural experience.Taupo · 4.5 km from downtown
Craters of the Moon
The Moon Crater is known for its unique volcanic landforms and geothermal phenomena. Its shape resembles the surface of the moon, so it is called the Moon Crater. The Moon Crater is an active volcanic crater, and the surface is covered with hot steam and mud pools, which is a spectacular sight. Visitors can hike along the trails of the Crater to enjoy the surrounding natural scenery and geological wonders. The trail is suitable for visitors of all fitness levels, and there are several viewpoints along the way, providing good photo opportunities. The formation of the Moon Crater is related to the activities of the nearby geothermal power station. In the 1950s, the land north of Lake Taupo suddenly heated up and steamed, forming many steaming mud pools and other geothermal features. This was caused by the nearby geothermal power station causing a drop in groundwater pressure, hot water gushing to the ground and gushing out from various outlets. There are rich flora and fauna resources near the Crater, and visitors may encounter birds and plants unique to New Zealand during their hike. In order to protect the natural environment, it is recommended that visitors follow the trail instructions and do not pick plants or disturb wildlife at will.Taupo · 4.6 km from downtown
AJ Hackett Taupo Bungy & Swing
New Zealand's tallest water bungee jump, set 154 feet above the Waikato River, offers breathtaking views as you dip into the crystal clear water below.Taupo · 1.6 km from downtown
Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings
MaoriRockCarvings is located in Taupo, New Zealand and has many fine rock carvings.Taupo · 7.6 km from downtown
Lake Taupo Hole in One Challenge
Taupo · 682m from downtown
Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours
Join us and experience the real Middle-earth™ at the Hobbiton Movie Set, where, in the heart of the Waikato region, you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire™, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies.Fall in love with the Alexander family sheep farm, just as acclaimed director Sir Peter Jackson did, as you journey on a short bus ride through the unequivocal beauty of the land, with the mighty Kaimai Ranges towering in the distance. Your guide will escort you on a shared walking tour around the movie set, showcasing the intricate details, pointing out the most famous locations and explaining how movie magic was made here. △ Immerse yourself in the fairy tale town of The Hobbit △ Ejoy the fenced garden and the mirror lake △ Admire New Zealand's stunning sceneryMatamata · 96.6 km from Taupo
Sail Barbary
Taupo · 436m from downtown
Waipahihi Botanical Reserve
Taupo · 4 km from downtown
Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest
Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest is adjacent to the urban area of Rotorua and is one of the early forest areas in New Zealand for exotic tree species introduction trials. From the late 19th century to the early 20th century, over 170 tree species were experimentally planted here to determine which could adapt to New Zealand, particularly Rotorua's volcanic soil. Today, only a handful of these species remain, with the California coast redwoods planted in 1901 becoming the experiment's surprise success — they grow faster here than in their native California. Over a century later, they now tower skyward, forming a magnificent forest. The redwood memorial grove is the essence of the entire forest: the trail is covered with soft redwood bark chips, making each step springy; giant trees stand closely on both sides, their tops barely visible even when looking up. Among them, one particularly massive tree stands approx. 70 m tall with a trunk diameter exceeding 1.5 m, requiring several people to encircle it with outstretched arms. Native New Zealand ferns thrive beneath the trees, creating a striking scene where towering redwoods and sprawling fern fronds share the frame—a highly recognizable sight in Rotorua. The memorial grove loop takes less than 1 hr to complete, with boardwalks on some sections, making it suitable for all ages. Those with good stamina can extend their hike to the outer forest trails. This forest is also a popular destination for walking, running, and mountain cycling, with its crisscrossing trails clearly graded by difficulty. It holds considerable fame in the cycling community, attracting many who come specifically to ride the trails. Just a few minutes' drive from the city, the slanting morning or evening light filtering through the trees creates beautiful shadows and fern patterns, making these the most comfortable times for a stroll.Rotorua · 61.4 km from Taupo
Experiences you can't miss in Taupo
Featured Cultural experiences in Taupo
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3.0/5
· 1 review· 76 bookedFree cancellation
FromCAD 261.54
5.0/5
· 3 reviewsFree cancellation
FromCAD 372.84
![1-day tour to Hobbiton Movie Set from Auckland [15-seater Mercedes bus/city hotel transfers]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0357112000rxftek4D0BA_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
FromCAD 317.19
FromCAD 454.72
![Auckland Round-Trip Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours + Waitomo Glowworm Caves Day Tour [Including Lunch]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0350l12000fi6pz475460_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
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FromCAD 421.69
4.0/5
· 1 reviewFree cancellation
FromCAD 455.51
![Hobbiton movie set + Rotorua tour from Auckland [Te Puia - Rotorua, NZ]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0355h12000s02y6ab8026_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
FromCAD 378.93
Featured Day tours in Taupo
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5.0/5
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61 consecutive positive reviews
FromCAD 293.91
FromCAD 293.91
4.7/5
· 588 reviews· 72 bookedFree cancellation
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68 consecutive positive reviews
FromCAD 40.91
![Auckland private charter 1-day tour: Blue Spring / Te Waihou Walkway + geothermal park + Huka Falls + Lake Taupo [Chinese and English]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0351b12000r5oera80D3D_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
FromCAD 153.35
![Auckland small group tour: Blue Spring / Te Waihou Walkway ~ geothermal wonderland ~ Huka Falls ~ Lake Taupo [English]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0354012000pnb0dogE742_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
4.6/5
· 177 reviews· 32 bookedFree cancellation
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90.4% of travelers recommend
FromCAD 53.18
4.9/5
· 34 reviews· 44 bookedFree cancellation
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34 consecutive positive reviews
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FromCAD 49.11CAD 51.7
Featured Food & drink in Taupo
View all Food & drink![New Zealand Māori-style buffet + Māori haka war dance performance + geothermal fountain + kiwi bird [Te Puia - Rotorua, NZ/geothermal park]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images//0585s12000n34d2m18813_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
FromCAD 101.86
FromCAD 247.06
Featured Outdoor experiences in Taupo
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FromCAD 248.55CAD 261.64
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FromCAD 207.77CAD 218.71
5.0/5
· 1 reviewFree cancellation
FromCAD 287.52
![AJ Hackett Taupo Bungy & Swing experience in North Island, New Zealand [includes videos & photos | optional tandem jump]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0353o12000sycra47C0F3_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
FromCAD 208.72
5.0/5
· 9 reviewsFree cancellation
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FromCAD 44.57CAD 46.92
Free things to do in Taupo
Lake Taupo
Turangi · 18.6 km from TaupoImmediate access, Book now for todayHuka Falls
Taupo · 4.5 km from downtownCraters of the Moon
Taupo · 4.6 km from downtownAJ Hackett Taupo Bungy & Swing
Taupo · 1.6 km from downtownNgātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings
Taupo · 7.6 km from downtownLake Taupo Hole in One Challenge
Taupo · 682m from downtownHobbiton™ Movie Set Tours
Matamata · 96.6 km from TaupoBook now for tomorrowSail Barbary
Taupo · 436m from downtownWaipahihi Botanical Reserve
Taupo · 4 km from downtownRedwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest
Rotorua · 61.4 km from Taupo
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What travellers say about Taupo
张知珩November 12, 2020
5.0
Lake Taupo is so big that it looks like a sea. It is a must-see attraction when traveling to the South Island of New Zealand! If you live in the city, you can walk to the lake. There are many sailboats and yachts, and you can play golf directly in the lake. New Zealanders are really good at playing. It is also very comfortable to lie in the green space by the lake and bask in the sun. All hotels are fully booked during the peak travel season, so you must book in advance. There is also a Huka Falls nearby to check in.
Lake Taupo
Bobo0692December 4, 2023
5.0
This is such a feast to eyes! This is an extremely beautiful waterfall. This stunning beautiful body of water is one of the loveliest spot Taupo has to offer.
Huka Falls
王海娃子October 13, 2019
4.0
The uneven surface of the ground is really like the surface of the moon, with pits and potholes, and geothermal heat comes out from time to time. New Zealand has rich geological features and is a good place to take pictures of the moon's surface!
Craters of the Moon
华-RainbowApril 30, 2020
4.0
Enjoy the stunning views as you dive into the clear water below, just 5 minutes from Taupo town.
AJ Hackett Taupo Bungy & Swing
飞鸟-纳尔逊September 28, 2026
5.0
Before my trip, various travel guides and reviews were conflicting, with both positive and negative opinions. However, after visiting in person, I was absolutely right; it fulfilled a wish I'd had for nearly 20 years! The management, service, and maintenance were all very attentive; the two-hour guided tour, with the guide full of enthusiasm, transported visitors into the wonderful world of Middle-earth/The Shire.
Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours
宋有熊June 19, 2026
5.0
I highly recommend the nighttime treetop walkway in the Rotorua Redwood Forest! When traveling with seniors and children, safety and a great experience are paramount. The park's nighttime lighting and safety measures are exceptional; the suspension bridge has robust safety barriers on both sides, ensuring you won't slip. The combination of modern light art and the ancient redwood forest is simply stunning, both mysterious and dreamlike. My 5-year-old felt like he was on an adventure, and the seniors found the pace slow and comfortable, not tiring at all. It's not just a visual feast, but also a rare opportunity for family relaxation. If you're bringing elders and children to Rotorua, don't miss this nighttime activity—it's absolutely worth the price!
Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest
