Best Things to Do in Taupō – Waterfalls, Hot Springs & Lake Adventures

Taupō is bursting with things to do, from high-energy thrills to peaceful escapes. Adrenaline seekers can throw themselves from the Taupō Bungy or test their nerves on the Cliffhanger Swing, while others might choose a scenic cruise across Lake Taupō, a short walk to a lookout or a soak in the region’s famous hot pools. With so many options, it can be hard to decide where to start — but these five experiences stand out as the best of Taupō.

1. Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings

Take to the water and discover the Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings, a 14-metre artwork etched into the cliffs of Lake Taupō. Created in the late 1970s by master carver Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell, the carving depicts Ngātoroirangi, a great navigator and tohunga (spiritual leader). Whether by kayak, yacht or scenic cruise, it’s an awe-inspiring reminder of the stories and artistry woven into this land.

• Address/Access: Located on the cliffs of Mine Bay, Lake Taupō. No road access — must be reached by water.
• Options: Kayak tours (2–4 hours), sailing trips, scenic lake cruises.
• Features: 14-metre carving, smaller companion carvings, dramatic volcanic cliffs, crystal-clear lake waters.
• Local Tip: Kayaking gets you closest and lets you appreciate the scale of the carving but sailing at sunset offers a magical view of the cliffs in golden light.

💡 Did you know? Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell completed the carving after finishing his traditional training — it was a gift to the town and remains one of New Zealand’s largest contemporary Māori artworks.

2. Taupō Bungy & Swing

For pure adrenaline, nothing beats Taupō Bungy & Swing. Perched high above the Waikato River, this iconic site lets you freefall 47 metres toward the turquoise waters below — solo or tandem. Not quite ready to bungy? The Cliffhanger Swing offers the same breathtaking drop, launching you in a swooping arc out across the river. Whether you jump, swing or simply watch from the platform, it’s one of Taupō’s most thrilling experiences.

• Local Tip: Even if you’re not jumping, it’s worth visiting just to watch others leap. The atmosphere is electric and the river views are stunning.
• Address: 202 Spa Road, Taupō 3330
• Opening Hours: Daily, 9:30am – 4:30pm (weather dependent)
• Cost: Bungy from around $180 NZD | Swing from around $160 NZD (solo or tandem options available)
• Features: 47-metre-high jump platform, New Zealand’s only cliff-top bungy over a river, tandem bungy and swing options, viewing platform for spectators, photos and video packages.

3. Aratiatia Rapids Lookout Walk

Just upstream from Huka Falls, the Aratiatia Rapids come to life when the dam gates open. Within minutes, the quiet riverbed transforms into a thundering torrent of whitewater, as thousands of litres of water surge through the narrow gorge. It’s a breathtaking mix of nature and engineering, and one of Taupō’s most dramatic sights. At full release, up to 80,000 litres of water per second roar through the rapids.

• Address: Aratiatia Dam, Aratiatia Road, Taupō 3377 (about 10 minutes’ drive from town)
• Opening Hours: Dam releases generally at 10am, 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm (check for seasonal changes).
• Cost: Free
• Features: 10-minute return track to viewing platforms, multiple lookouts along the gorge, chance to see the full riverbed before and after the release, car park and toilets available.
• Local Tip: Arrive 10–15 minutes before release time so you can watch the full transformation from trickling stream to roaring rapids.

💡 Fun fact: The rapids are so dramatic they were featured in The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, where the dwarves escaped downriver in barrels.

4. Huka Falls

No visit to Taupō is complete without experiencing Huka Falls. Here, the mighty Waikato River, usually more than 100 metres wide is forced through a gorge just 15 metres across before plunging 11 metres in a thundering rush of turquoise water. The roar, spray, and sheer power make it one of Aotearoa’s most iconic natural attractions. Viewing platforms are just a short walk from the car park, and for a closer look you can join a jet boat or river cruise.

• Address: Huka Falls Road, Taupō 3377 (about 5 minutes’ drive north of town)
• Opening Hours: Open daily, 24/7 access to the walkways and platforms
• Cost: Free entry
• Features: Multiple viewing platforms, car park, picnic area, riverside walks, nearby cafés, optional jet boat and cruise tours.
• Local Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and softer light over the falls, it makes the turquoise water glow even more.

Fun Fact: Over 220,000 litres of water surge past every second, making Huka Falls the most visited natural attraction in New Zealand.

📖 Read our full guide to Huka Falls here.

5. Taupō DeBretts Hot Springs & Spa

End your day with a soak at Taupō DeBretts Hot Springs, one of the region’s most popular spots for relaxation. Choose from outdoor and indoor thermal pools, slip into a private pool for some peace and quiet, or add some fun with the hydro-slides and children’s play areas. If you want to truly unwind, the on-site spa offers massages, facials, and body treatments , the perfect way to recover after exploring the region.

• Address: 76 Napier–Taupō Road, Taupō 3330
• Opening Hours: 8:30am – 8:30pm daily (last entry 8:00pm)
• Cost: Adults from $24 | Children from $15 | Family passes available | Extra charges for private pools & spa treatments
• Features: Outdoor mineral pools, indoor pools, waterslides, toddler play area, day spa, café, cabins and lodges on-site.
• Local Tip: Arrive in the evening and soak as the sun sets — the pools are beautifully lit at night and far less busy.

Fun Fact: The natural mineral water here is heated by geothermal activity beneath Taupō, flowing directly into the pools at a soothing 38–42°C

From the thundering rush of Huka Falls to the cultural depth of the Mine Bay carvings, the drama of the Aratiatia Rapids, the thrills of Taupō Bungy, and the relaxation of DeBretts Hot Springs, Taupō delivers experiences for every kind of traveller. Whether you come for adrenaline, culture or calm, this lakeside town shows off the very best of Aotearoa in one unforgettable place.

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