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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Geothermal
Spa Thermal Park
Spa Thermal Park is home of the famous Otumuheke Stream hot pools. From here, you can also explore the Huka scenic walking trails and the Rotary Ride mountain bike trail.
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Taupō town
#LoveTaupō lettering
Do you love Taupō? Located on Taupō's lakefront, the #LOVETAUPŌ lettering has quickly become an icon of the town and a must-stop photo spot.
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Hiking & walking trails
Motuoapa Cliff Lookout Walk
An easy short walk to a lookout point with panoramic views over the southern end of Lake Taupo.
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Biking trails
Orakau Trail (Great Lake Trails)
The Orakau Trail is a nice gradual downhill which takes you through stunning native wetlands before dropping you into the secluded Kawakawa Bay.
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Tongariro National Park
Lake Otamangakau
Commonly referred to as The 'O, the Big O, or Lake O, Lake Otamangakau is one of the most-fished lakes in the Taupo Fishing District. It is only second to its much larger neighbor, Lake Taupo, which holds the surface area size of Singapore.
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Biking trails
River Side Trail
Two way trail along the beautiful Waikato River between Control Gates Bridge and Spa Thermal Park.
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Biking trails
Waihora Link
Ride amongst vast stands of Kamahi, through volcanic rock formations and past the intriguing Echo Rock before you start to descend down the Kotukutuku Stream.
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Scenic attraction
Te Ātea - Tapuaeharuru
Where Taupō township meets the lakefront, you’ll discover the newly-created Te Ātea (the Māori word for 'space'). Its purpose? A meeting place for all. But behind it is a story that began many thousands of years ago.
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Hiking & walking trails
Ketetahi Track
The Ketetahi Track is a section of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. You can get close up views of the active Te Maari Craters.
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Hiking & walking trails
Tawhai Falls
This short easy walk in the Tongariro National Park is accessible on foot from Whakapapa Village or a short drive to the start of the track.
