Don’t Miss

Fire and ice

Snow capped volcanoes, hot springs, boiling mud pools and silica terraces provide a fascinating insight into Lake Taupo's violent past

• Explore an active geothermal area of mud pools, craters and steaming vents
• Soak in a geothermal hot spring
• Drive around the famous 'Volcanic Loop' highway to see Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe
• Take a Lake Taupo history lesson - learn about Lake Taupo's extraordinary volcanic history and visit the silica terraces that replicate the legendary Pink and White Terraces
• Ski on an active volcano - Mt Ruapehu is home to the Turoa and Whakapapa ski fields, the largest in New Zealand

Natural heritage and maori culture

Experience the pristine natural rainforests and discover traditional Maori culture

• Gain a fascinating insight into the customs and history of the Maori people - visit a replica Maori Village, watch cultural performances and taste a traditional hangi (feast)
• Walk through ancient rainforest in Whirinaki and Pureora Forest Parks, where some of New Zealand's rarest flora and fauna still thrive
• Hike through vast ancient beech forests in the rugged Kaimanawa Forest Park
• Walk the famous Tongariro Crossing or one of the other volcanic trails in the Tongariro National Park
• Take a jet boat or river cruise to the foot of Huka Falls and feel the thunder
• Visit the National Trout Centre at Turangi and discover New Zealand's angling heritage

Adventure plus

Scare yourself silly with daredevil antics

• Bungy jump off a platform over the Waikato River
• Tandem skydive for a jet's eye view of Lake Taupo
• Mountain bike through rugged, unspoilt bush - pick up a cycling map to find the best terrain
• Push your limits with 4x4 quad motor biking, off-road 2 wheel motorcycling, horse trekking, replica race car racing, rock climbing or mountain boarding on New Zealand's first mountain board terrain park
• Rip into river fun with jet boating, white water rafting, adventure kayaking or canoeing
• Dip into lake activities such as windsurfing, jet skiing, parasailing, water-skiing, wakeboarding and kayaking

Indulgent time out

Relaxation, fresh air and peace comes with the territory

• Take a boat or kayak and cruise around secluded coves and beaches. Visit the intricate Maori Rock carvings at Mine Bay - they're only accessible by water
• Capture an aerial view of the Tongariro National Park from a helicopter or floatplane
• Practice your swing on one of the region's six golf courses
• Soak your stress away in a geothermal hot pool
• Stroll through native bush or visit the botanical gardens. Pick up a list of private gardens open for viewing
• Dine out at one of the many restaurants or sample the seafood at a geothermal prawn farm
• Grab a map and follow the arts and crafts trail, or stroll the town's stylish shops
• Catch a rainbow or brown trout on Lake Taupo or go fly-fishing with a local guide on the Tongariro River