Bella Vista's Blog

If you’re looking for a New Zealand holiday destination where you’ll never be short of things to do, Taupo is a clear winner! The township is nestled on the north-eastern side of Lake Taupo, making it a popular holiday spot for water-sports enthusiasts, cyclists, hikers, adrenaline junkies and explorers. Our list of popular Taupo activities has something for everyone… Read on to plan your next getaway!

Walking and cycling

One of the most enticing Taupo attractions is the incredible ability to explore the town’s beautiful natural surrounds by bike or by foot. When it comes to cycle trails, you’re absolutely spoilt for choice. Ride around beaches and wetlands, along the Waikato river, through native forest or right up to the famous Huka falls. And if you prefer walking or hiking, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is an absolute must! Been there, done that? Try hiking to the summit of Mt Tauhara, the Rangatira Point Track or explore the gorgeous sights and smells of the Waipahihi Bontanical Reserve.

Geothermal wonders

A trip to Taupo would be wasted without exploring the magnificent hot springs and geysers that are found in this special part of the world. We mean it when we say that these amazing Taupo attractions are not to be missed! If you’re looking for family fun, try a visit to Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs. The best thing is our Taupo accommodation is only 6 minutes drive from here. There’s a great water park with slides for the kids and a day spa for the adults who are keen to just relax. If you want to explore in more natural surrounds, try Orakei Korako Geothermal Park, Craters of the Moon Geothermal Walk or the Tokaanu Themal Walk. You’ll see steamy pools, hot bubbling mud, incredible geysers and unique flora and fauna.

Adventure and adrenaline

Taupo may not be the official ‘adventure capital of the world’—but we’re calling it a close second! Looking for things to do in Taupo that’ll get your heart racing? We’ve got bungy jumping and skydiving for those keen to go all out – and jetboating if heights just aren’t your thing. You can speed up to the base of the beautiful Huka Falls or try white-water jet boating through the Aratiatia or Fuljames rapids.

Water sports galore

If you’re visiting while the weather is warm, make sure you try to get out on the water! We suggest  a kayak adventure around glistening Lake Taupo to see the Mine Bay Maori Carvings. Or for something more fast-paced, try white-water rafting on the mighty Waikato River—it’s one of the best Taupo activities for adventure-lovers! And if you can hire a boat and some extra gear, the options are endless… Waterskiing, wakeboarding, fishing or just simply putting your feet up on deck and basking in the serenity.

Top Taupo attractions

To round out our list, we recommend one of our most popular ‘tried and trusted’ Taupo activities that many of our regular visitors make time for on each and every visit... The Huka Falls. These majestic looking waterfalls are always worth a look—you can take a leisurely stroll along the many tracks and even watch the Huka Falls jet boat race up to the rapids.

For more ideas on the best things to do in Taupo, feel free to have a chat to us at reception! We’re full of local knowledge and can offer tips and tricks to make sure you make some amazing memories in our lovely lakeside town.