Lake Taupo Volcanic Zone

Are you planning a family holiday in the Taupo thermal region? Wow, are you in for a treat! Whether you are looking for thrilling adventure, or just a relaxing retreat to unwind, you couldn't choose a better region to visit than this unique thermal oasis.

Check the Taupo events calendar for adventures to share with others, or choose from the list of more personal challenges like bungy jumping, sky diving or a jetboat ride. Maybe fly fishing, kayaking or a slow boat cruise to see the Lake Taupo Maori rock carvings is more your style? Its all there, and much much more. Afterwards, soak in the steaming hot pools or experience one of the many relaxing spa treatments that are available. End the perfect day with a glass of wine on the balcony while taking in the spectacular views of Lake Taupo and the volcanoes of the Tongariro National Park.

Launch charter Boating Trips on Lake Taupo

A visit to the Lake Taupo Volcanic region is not complete without actually getting on the lake! On a clear day, the views to the Tongariro National Park are breathtaking. The water of the lake is so clear, you can see the rock beds at the bottom. In summertime, you may even want to jump in for a refreshing swim! And why not throw a line and have a go at catching New Zealand's famous rainbow trout. Bring it back to town, and most restaurants will happily cook it for you. Lake Taupo rainbow trout cannot be fished commercially so the only way to taste one is to catch it yourself!

Discover the Lake Taupo Maori Carvings

The Maori Rock Carvings in Mine Bay on Lake Taupo are stunning, even more so because they can only be discovered from the water. Whether the lake is majestic and calm, or thunderous and agitated, the Rock Carvings are a moving site. Make the trip on kayaks, or on a Launch charter boating trip. Make sure to go with a local who will be able to tell you the many myths and legends of the creatures carved on the rock. This is one of Lake Taupo's top experiences. To view the Carvings from a kayak, contact Wilderness Escapes or from a boat, contact Chris Jolly Outdoors.

Craters of the Moon

Craters of the Moon is Lake Taupo's unique geothermal area. Steaming vents, boiling mud, craters, you will truly feel like you have just landed on the moon! The walk around Craters of the Moon takes about 45 minutes. This is a great wet-weather activity. The colder and wetter it gets, the more steam you see rising from the craters. Craters of the Moon is located off SH1 just north of Taupo. Take the turn-off directly opposite the Helistar cafe. Or, if you need transport from town, contact the Hot Bus on 0508 HOT BUS.

Authentic Maori Culture at the Wairakei Terraces

Wairakei Terraces offers an authentic taste of Lake Taupo Maori culture. Learn about the skills, arts and crafts of early Maori settlers. The day time tour includes a visit of the traditional village and geothermal areas. The night time cultural experience includes a Powhiri (traditional welcome), a guided tour, a traditional meal (Hangi) and dance and music performance, including the world famous Haka. For more information of to make bookings, contact the Wairakei Terraces Lake Taupo.

Orakei Korako - The Hidden Valley, Lake Taupo

"Orakei Korako is possibly the best thermal area left in New Zealand and one of the finest in the world"
- Lonely Planet Guide

Orakei Korako is a truly unique tourist attraction - a geothermal wonderland park, one of nature’s true gifts. Cross the Waikato River between Rotorua and Taupo, New Zealand (NZ) by boat, then tour a world of gushing geysers, hot springs, boiling mud pools and some of the largest silica terraces in the world - an activity not to be missed.

Visit the Hidden Valley website