Top Taupo Attractions

Over recent years, Taupo has become one of the most popular places to visit in New Zealand. With a gorgeous lake, snow-blanketed winter ski fields, alpine deserts, and three towering volcanoes in the Tongariro National Park, there is no better place to celebrate the bride-to-be’s last days of freedom. There are so many unique activities to try at amazing attractions in Taupo. 

The region is perfect for outdoor adventures like skiing, snowboarding, white water rafting, and kayaking. You can bask in the sun while cruising around Lake Taupo on a private luxury charter boat or enjoy your favourite film on a floating cinema with Sail Barbary Taupo. You can also soak in the hot springs waters at Wairakei Terraces and enjoy a winery tour. These are just some of the great activities and attractions on offer at Taupo.

We have some great Wicked Hens packages in Taupo, and we also allow you to build your own package by incorporating a range of our ideas. 

To ensure you have a memorable hens getaway, we have compiled a list of the top ten things you should do when visiting Taupo.

Ngatoroirangi Maori Rock Carvings Tour

Take a scenic cruise of Maori carvings on Lake Taupo, marvelling at the craftmanship of the Ngātoroirangi Māori carvings. The cruise allows you to delve into the history of the carvings, and it has become a favourite attraction for tourists worldwide. The 90-minute cruise features expert commentary on the history of the beautifully crafted carvings, and you’ll enjoy a muffin and hot drink of your choice during the cruise. It’s a must-do activity when visiting Taupo.

Explore Lake Taupo on A Private Yacht Cruise

Sit back and relax as you take in Lake Taupo’s stunning crystal blue waters on your privately charted yacht. With a floating cinema onboard, this is the sailing experience of a lifetime. Your tour comes with experienced local guides who will explain Māori’s deep-rooted history and culture – it’s the perfect day out.

Take a Winery Tour

Spend a day exploring the finest wineries in New Zealand. Just a short drive from Taupo, you and your besties will enjoy the scenic trip to Napier. The region boasts some of the finest red wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and a vast selection of Chardonnays. During your full-day tour, you’ll also stop for lunch at one of the finest winery restaurants in the country, where you can raise a glass of vino to the bride-to-be. 

Go White Water Rafting

Get ready for a thrill-seeking adventure with Tongariro River Rafting as you navigate 60 rapids. Experienced guides will teach you and your besties how to paddle before exploring the jaw-dropping scenery you can only access by water, including volcanic cliffs. You’ll get up close and personal with the wildlife, seeing the Whio, an endangered blue duck, along the riverbanks and trout. This is an adrenaline-filled, heart-pumping adventure you don’t want to miss.

Discover the Waikto River to Huka Falls by Bike

There’s no better way to explore Taupo’s beautiful natural wonders than a guided bike tour. You’ll take in the stunning scenery as you make your way through the trails of the Waikato River, Huka Falls, Aratiatia Dam, Wairakei Tourist Park and Craters Mountain Bike Park, including the Rotary Ride Aratiatia. Anyone can embark on this adventure, from the beginner to the more experienced, and all equipment is included, so nothing is stopping you from embarking on this great cycle adventure.

Huka Falls Jet Boat Ride

If you’re looking for adventure, a jet boat ride with 360-degree spins should quell your thirst for excitement. You’ll travel on jet boats at a speed of 80km an hour. For 30 minutes, you will hurtle towards the base of the mighty Huka Falls – it’s as close as you will ever get to one of New Zealand’s most popular attractions. Along your thrill-seeking adventure, you’ll also take in the sight of the native bush, rock cliff face and hot water streams. Hold on tight, as this will be the ride of your life!

Soak in the Hot Springs Waters in Wairakei Terraces

Taupo is unique in the fact that it has geothermal natural wonders. In Wairakei Terraces, you can relax your mind, body and soul with a dip in their naturally heated spring waters. If you want to witness mother nature at its finest, head to Orakei Korako, which has bubbling mud pools. Not only are they visually stunning, but it’s also an incredible way to wipe away any pre-wedding jitters.

Take The Plunge with Adrenalin-Filled Activities

The bride-to-be is about to take the ultimate leap of faith by walking down the aisle, but that will be a piece of cake compared to a 47m bungy off a cliff-top high over the Waikato River. And if that is not enough, you also have the option of skydiving, where you’ll freefall from heights ranging from four heights – 9,000 ft, 12,000 ft, 15,000 ft or 18,500 ft skydive for up to 75 seconds.

Ski, Snowboard and Have Fun

During the winter months (June to October), you can hit the slopes in Taupo for what is known to be the most extended ski season in Australasia. In Waikato and the Taupo district, skiing and snowboarding are hugely popular pastimes, with the area offering excellent skiing conditions and some of the best facilities around. If you’re a beginner, fear not – there are terrains for all skill sets. You can also organise a professional instructor to guide you before hitting the slopes for the first time. One thing is guaranteed – you’ll have a lot of fun in this winter wonderland.

Get Back to Nature with Canopy Camping

While there are some amazing accommodations in Taupo, why not experience something truly unique by heading to the Te Tuhi Dome for an overnight canopy camping adventure? Located on the Te Tuhi Hillside Retreat, you’ll take in stunning views of Lake Taupo from your hillside location, be awoken by the sound of birds singing, see calves frolicking in the paddocks, and witness chickens, cows and sheep grazing food – it’s the ultimate back to nature escape.

Taupo has so many activities to try, and they’re all set against the stunning backdrop of unique attractions, with this natural wonderland being the ultimate playground for adventure seekers.