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.
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Biking trails
Waikato River Trails
Mountain bikers and walkers can explore a series of cycle trails along New Zealand's longest river - the mighty Waikato River.
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Scenic attraction
Lake Kuratau
Behind the beautiful lakeside settlement of Kuratau sits the smallest but mightiest lake in the Taupo Fishery when it comes to hauling in heaps of fish. Originally part of the hydro-power scheme, Lake Kuratau is a flooded forest stocked to the brim with small rainbows and the occasional brown.
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Biking trails
Huka Trails
Ride a network of trails that wind along the Waikato River, connecting Taupo town with Huka Falls, Aratiatia Dam, Wairakei Tourist Park and Craters Mountain Bike Park.
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Hiking & walking trails
Kawakawa Section (Great Lake Trails)
The Kawakawa Section of the Great Lake Trails is made up of the K2K Trail, Orakau Trail, and Otaketake Trail.
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Biking trails
Whakaipo Section (Great Lake Trails)
The Whakaipo Section of the Great Lake Trails is made up of the W2K Trail and the Headland Loop Trail.
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Biking trails
Waihaha Link
Part of the Waihaha Section of the Great Lake Trails, the Waihaha Link trail starts at the Waihaha River carpark and follows the Waihaha River towards Lake Taupō, Views over the volcanic landscape, with the spectacular Tieke Falls a major highlight.
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Hiking & walking trails
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is rated as the best one-day hike in New Zealand. Trek across a volcanic alpine landscape of dramatic contrasts – steaming vents, glacial valleys, ancient lava flows, alpine vegetation and vivid crater lakes, all with stunning views.
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Biking trails
W2K Trail -Great Lake Trails
The W2K trail is part of the Whakaipo Section of the Great Lake Trails. It provides great views across Lake Taupo and back down towards Kinloch, one of the most beautiful lakeside villages in the country.
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Hiking & walking trails
Opepe Scenic and Historic Reserve
Wander among ancient towering trees and discover relics of the area's fascinating pioneering history, only a short drive from Taupō.
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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.
