Family and Kids' Activities

Perfect for family get-togethers, corporate team building, and school outings. Mind Junction has become one of Taupo’s must-see attractions.

Relax with a coffee, laugh with friends and family and experience this offer next time you’re in Taupo.

Also know as Hidden Valley, this geothermal wonderland sits between Rotorua and Taupo on the Waikato River at Lake Ohakuri. The Silica Terraces that greet you at the base of Orakei Koroako are believed to be the largest of their kind. You will see 23 active natural geysers and a number of boiling hot springs and mud pools as you walk the park.

With trips departing twice daily, the Ernest Kemp vintage steamboat is a great way to see the Maori Rock Carvings and get out onto the lake. 

Your friendly skipper will provide interesting commentary about the history of the lake while you cruise around the bays to the carvings.  Indoor and outdoor seating means the cruise is suitable for all weather conditions. 

The two hour cruise is an affordable option for families and groups alike. 

Cruise for 1 hour and 20 minutes to New Zealand's most visited Natural Attraction, Huka Falls

Experience awesome views of Huka Falls (New Zealand's highest volume waterfall) from the purpose built riverboat. Comfortable inside seating, large rear deck and front viewing platform.

A real New Zealand experience with crystal clear water, birdlife and native bush lined riverbanks. See natural hot streams and the earth's energy that drives Wairakei Geothermal Power Station.

Located just 5 minutes north of Taupo on SH1 is a honey of a place that will be seen “Sweet As” by the entire family.  Kids of all ages will enjoy watching the bees hard at work in their glass viewing hives and in the learning centre, you’ll learn how and why the queen rules. Sample a myriad of yummy New Zealand made honey products including raw honey, jams, syrup, mead and loads of skincare and wellness products.  Try the homemade honey ice cream and fudge at their café. The Honey Hive also carries a wide range of New Zealand art and handcraft products at reasonable prices.

There is nothing quite like taking off and landing on the water, Taupo’s Floatplane offers a range of scenic flights over various points of interest around Taupo and National Park region. You can enjoy spectacular views from the seat of a high wing Cessna 206.

Advanced bookings will ensure your preferred time, particularly through the summer months.

Hukafalls Jet offers the best water level view of Huka Falls - one of the country's most visited natural attractions.  The half hour rides combine 360° spins with disorientating speeds for an unforgettable Taupo experience.

Hukafalls Jet is the only company operating on this part of the Waikato River, and is known for its outstanding record of professionalism and safety.

Take in the beautiful natural environment as you skim over the water: native bush, sheer rock cliff faces and thermal hot springs.

Rafting New Zealand caters for every single ability, with rafting trips from Grade 2 - 5 in several different rivers. For extreme white water and an adrenaline rush there is the Wairoa River tour or for a more relaxed beginner experience suitable for families and seniors the Tongariro River is the perfect solution.

Planning ahead with your booking is important as the higher grade trips only go once a week because of water volume.

"Discover ancient thermal features amidst a haven for native birds. Enjoy decadent home-stylee baking / Devonshire Teas in the quaint café and end the day with a peaceful secluded camping experience."

Adrift Outdoor Guided Adventures are the specialists in guiding and outdoor activities in the Tongariro and Whanganui National Parks.  

Take in some of the most spectacular scenery available throughout the country; learn the stories, the history and the legends of the land from within the tracks of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, within the dual World Heritage-listed site.

The three active andesitic volcanoes, Mt Tongariro (1967m), Mt Ngauruhoe (2291m) and Mt Ruapehu (2797m) sit majestically, dominating the landscape of the National Park.