Taupo Activities & Tours

Huka Falls Jet Boat is Taupo's most iconic thrill ride — hold on tight, because this one gets your heart racing.

Departing just minutes north of Taupo town, this 30-minute jet boat ride speeds along the Waikato River at up to 80km per hour. Your skilled driver will spin you through 360-degree turns and skim past cliff faces and native bush, passing the Wairakei geothermal power station and Huka Prawn Park along the way.

The highlight is getting right up close to the foot of Huka Falls, where more than 200,000 litres of water thunder past every second. It's been a New Zealand must-do since 1990 and is perfect for families, friends and first-time thrill seekers.

Taupo Skydiving is one of the most scenic skydives in the world — if there's one bucket-list adventure to tick off in New Zealand, this is it.

Your day starts in style with a free pick-up from Taupo town in a bright yellow stretch Hummer. Once you're kitted up and briefed by your tandem master, head up in the plane to 12,000, 15,000 or 16,500 feet, then take the leap and freefall at around 200km per hour for up to 70 seconds.

When the parachute opens, take in sweeping views of the deep blue Lake Taupo and the snow-capped volcanoes of Tongariro National Park as you glide gently back to earth. Add a photo and video package to relive every moment, because this is one adventure you'll want to share.

Tongariro Helicopter Flights are the ultimate way to see the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing — all the jaw-dropping views, without the 19km hike.

Departing from Taupo, this 50-minute scenic helicopter flight takes you over Huka Falls, along the Waikato River and down the eastern shores of Lake Taupo. Then it's on to Tongariro National Park, where you'll soar over the steaming crater of Mt Ngauruhoe, better known to movie fans as Mt Doom, and the brightly coloured Emerald Lakes.

On the way back, take in the hidden Lake Rotopounamu and fly past the Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay, with your pilot sharing stories the whole way. Suitable for all ages, it's a once-in-a-lifetime flight that's perfect for families and special occasions.

Taupo Bungy is the North Island's ultimate leap of faith — if you've ever wanted to tick bungy jumping off your bucket list, this is the place to do it.

Perched on a cliff-top platform 47 metres above the Waikato River, Taupo Bungy has been sending thrill-seekers over the edge for more than 30 years. Jump solo or tandem with a friend, and choose how wet you want to get, from a quick hand-dip in the crystal-clear river to a full water touch.

Your jump includes free pick-up from Taupo, a full safety briefing, a Certificate of Courage, and photos and video to prove you really did it. Still keen for more? Pair it with the Taupo Swing for a double dose of adrenaline.

Lake Taupo Scenic Cruise is the perfect way to slow down and soak up the beauty of New Zealand's largest lake.

Departing daily from the Taupo marina, hop aboard a comfortable, heated catamaran for a relaxing 1.5-hour cruise across the clear water. Your crew shares the volcanic history and Māori legends of the lake, with the snow-capped peaks of Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe on the horizon.

The highlight is getting up close to the famous Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay, which can only be seen from the water. With free tea, coffee and a hot muffin on most sailings, plus wheelchair-friendly access, it's a great day out for the whole family.