Top 10 Family-Friendly Things to Do in Taupō

Written By Kim Manunui

Planning a family trip to Taupō? You’re in for a treat. With its sparkling lake, stunning scenery, and endless activities for all ages, Taupō is the ultimate destination for making memories together. Whether your crew loves adventure, relaxation, or simply spending quality time outdoors, there’s something here for everyone.

Here are our top ten family-friendly things to do in Taupō:

1. Explore the mighty Huka Falls

One of Taupō’s most famous attractions, Huka Falls is a must-see for families. The thundering waterfall is both breathtaking and easy to access, with safe viewing platforms where kids can watch 220,000 litres of water per second crashing through the gorge. Pack a picnic, take a leisurely walk along the river tracks, or snap a family photo with this natural wonder as your backdrop.

2. Make a splash in Great Lake Taupō

Just two minutes from Little Haven, Lake Taupō is the perfect spot for a family day out. Build sandcastles, dip your toes in the water, or enjoy a lakeside picnic. Older kids (and the young at heart) can try their hand at paddleboarding, kayaking, or even a lake cruise. In summer, the lake’s warm shallows are ideal for safe swimming - and it’s all just a short stroll from Little Haven.

3. Marvel at Craters of the Moon

Step into another world at Craters of the Moon, a geothermal wonderland. Families can follow the boardwalk paths through steaming vents, bubbling craters, and hissing fumaroles. It’s an easy walk for kids and a fascinating glimpse into Taupō’s volcanic heart. Don’t forget the camera!

4. Visit Huka Prawn Park

For a fun-filled day that blends learning and laughter, Huka Prawn Park is hard to beat. Families can try prawn fishing, explore interactive water features, and enjoy the playground. The park’s hands-on activities are perfect for kids who love to explore, while parents will appreciate the chance to relax with a delicious meal at the riverside restaurant.

5. Discover Taupō’s Playground

Right in town, Taupō’s playground is a hit with families. With climbing frames, slides, a special area for the little ones and plenty of space to run, it’s a great spot to let the kids burn off some energy. If you are lucky you’ll catch one of the times when the Lion’s Train is running (usually weekends and holidays). And just across the street from the playground and the train you’ll find a couple of ice cream shops - Lunas Gelato and Kona Kones Skoopery - where you can indulge in a special treat.

6. Play a Round of Mini Golf

Taupō has not one but two awesome mini golf courses! And one is just around the corner from Little Haven. Taupō Mini Golf is situated on the lakefront with extensive gardens and iconic views of Lake Taupō and the mountains of Tongariro National Park. Swingers Putt Putt, located near the airport at ‘The Landing’ takes you on a journey around the Central Plateau showcasing the geography and many adventure based tourism activities that the Taupō region has to offer.

7. Have a soak at DeBretts Hot Springs

Warm up and wind down at Taupō DeBretts Hot Springs. Families can enjoy relaxing thermal pools, while kids will love the waterslides and interactive play areas. It’s a great year-round option, especially after a busy day exploring.

8. Take a Scenic Cruise on Lake Taupō

Hop aboard one of the family-friendly cruises on Lake Taupō and marvel at the stunning views, including the famous Māori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay. Many cruises offer free hot drinks and colouring-in packs for kids, making it a fun and easy outing for the whole family.

9. Go on a bike ride along the lakefront

Taupō’s flat lakefront paths are perfect for a family bike ride. Bring your own bikes (we’ve got plenty of space to store your bike a Little Haven) or hire them from one of the Bike Hire places here in Taupō. With stunning views of the lake and plenty of picnic spots along the way, it’s a relaxing way to enjoy Taupō at your own pace.

10. Experience the Aratiatia Rapids

For an unforgettable sight, head to Aratiatia Rapids. At set times each day, gates open to release water from the dam, transforming the tranquil riverbed into powerful rapids within minutes. It’s both safe to watch from the viewing platforms and fascinating for children to see the force of nature in action.

And where to stay: Your Family Haven in Taupō of course

After a big day of adventures, there’s nothing better than coming “home” to somewhere comfortable and welcoming. At Little Haven, we specialise in family-friendly stays, with spacious apartments, a swimming pool, spa pool, playground, games room, and BBQ facilities. Our quiet, park-like setting is just a short stroll to the lake and town centre – making it easy to enjoy everything Taupō has to offer.

So pack your bags, bring the kids, and get ready to discover why Taupō is one of New Zealand’s most family-friendly destinations.

If you don’t go, you will never know!

Kim Manunui

Hi, I’m Kim and I work with a great team to help individuals, as well as small and not so small businesses get their message, product and services to the world using digital media and creating wonderful websites that don’t cost the earth.

I was born in Canada, and grew up around Vancouver and the mountains of British Columbia. My love of pristine environments led me to New Zealand and eventually to the mountains, lakes and rivers of the central North Island which is home. My family’s heritage is here, and it’s from here that Korio traverses the planet.

The digital world is never static and neither are we.

And I say ‘we’ because I work with an awesome group of talented people who I gather together as required to complete a project.  Whatever your business, not-for-profit or individual needs are we gather the best team to get the job done.

Collaboratively we are creative, share sustainable values and work hard for great outcomes because that’s the buzz of satisfaction that drives us.

If you have an audience and market to reach, we can make that happen. Creative design, words that work and smart behind the scenes stuff that cuts through the online noise. We’ll design your website and then build it. We’ll manage the content as well as all your hosting needs. We can handle your online advertising so you get noticed,
and we’ll manage your social media presence so you get the clicks, likes and engagement to grow your business. All within the budget you set, because none of this needs to cost the earth.  And the job doesn’t stop when your website goes live. We are your virtual business partner.

https://www.korio.co.nz