Scenic attractions in Taupo
Defined by an ancient volcanic landscape with the largest freshwater lake in Australasia (plus more than 20 other lakes), thundering waterfalls, ancient native bush, the mighty Waikato River and Tongariro River and the volcanic mountains of the dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park, Taupo's spectacular natural features and scenic attractions can't be found anywhere else in the world.
-
Biking trails
42 Traverse
The 42 Traverse follows an old logging road through some of the most remote and rugged land in New Zealand.
-
Biking trails
River Side Trail
Two way trail along the beautiful Waikato River between Control Gates Bridge and Spa Thermal Park.
-
Biking trails
Waihaha Section
Discover the Waihaha section of the Great Lake Trails made up of two interconnected trails: the Waihaha Link and the Waihora Link. The Taupō region’s supervolcanic nature is on full display with towering volcanic rock cliffs, breathtaking vistas, and a secluded waterfall nestled within the Waihaha Valley.
-
Biking trails
Craters Mountain Bike Park
Craters MTB Park is a purpose-built mountain bike park located only a short distance from Taupō town, with trails ranging from children’s entry-level to technical cross-country and downhill trails.
-
Hiking & walking trails
Link Road to Mount Pureora track
This track is the shortest route to the top of Mount Pureora. On a clear day walkers are rewarded with views across Lake Taupō, the Mamaku Ranges, Mount Taranaki, and Mount Ruapehu.
-
Biking trails
Otaketake Trail - Great Lake Trails
The newest section of the Great Lake Trails can be ridden by itself (12km) or part of a 36km loop that starts and finishes in Kinloch.
-
Hiking & walking trails
Waihora Lagoon
This easy walk in Pureora Forest Park takes you to a small rain-fed lagoon surrounded by tall kahikatea and rimu trees.
-
Biking trails
Orakau Trail (Great Lake Trails)
The Orakau Trail is a nice gradual downhill which takes you through stunning native wetlands before dropping you into the secluded Kawakawa Bay.
-
Biking trails
Timber Trail
The 85km long Timber Trail is a unique mountain bike ride across ancestral Maori lands, taking you deep into the ancient Pureora Forest Park in New Zealand's central North Island.
-
Taupō town
Waipāhīhī Botanical Reserve
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the shimmering caldera of Lake Taupō, this sweeping reserve, with its network of trails through different plant collections, is a relaxing haven for visitors.
