Taupo

There are many sights of interest in the Taupo region, most of which are free of charge, and you should set a day aside to check out some of the sights. To get around the sights transport is a must - a mountain bike at the very least for people with some fitness or perhaps a rental car or shuttle for those who prefer to relax while on holiday.

Aratiatia Dam

– The first dam in the Waikato Hydro power scheme. The gates are opened daily at 10AM, 12PM, 2PM and 4PM 10, 12 & 2 during winter which causes the spectacular recreation of the Aratiatia Rapids.

Huka Falls

– New Zealand’s most visited natural attraction located just to the north of town on the Waikato river. New Zealand’s largest river is forced between a narrow split in the bedrock. Quite impressive with flows often exceeding 220,000 litres per second.

Kinloch

– A pretty lakeside village 15 minutes drive west of Taupo.

Lake Taupo Museum and Art Gallery

A small museum located near the centre of town behind the Great Lake Centre on Story Place. Contains exhibits on the Maori, Volcanic and early European history of Taupo. A Maori meeting house is also recreated within the building and exhibitions of art by local and New Zealand artists are ongoing. The "Ora" garden which won the 2004 Chelsea Flower Show has recently been added in a specially created outside area. Lake Taupo Museum, Story Place, +64 7 376 0413

Lions Walk

– A walkway starting in town and heading south for about 5 miles following the lake edge. Paved in places through the efforts of local service clubs.

Mount Tauhara

– The mountain sitting on the eastern edge of town can be climbed fairly easily get directions from your accommodation and the views from the top on a clear day are remarkable, take your camera.

Waipahihi Botanical Reserve

– Located in the suburbs has both vehicle and walking tracks through forest and gardens. Also boasts one of the best vantage points of the lake and mountains of the Tongariro National Park.

Craters of the Moon

– An easy 45min/2.75km walk through an active and ever changing geothermal wonderland.

Volcanic Activity Centre

Karetoto Road, +64 7 374 8375 (http://www.volcanoes.co.nz/). Just north of town in the Wairakei Tourist Park is the Volcanic Activity Centre which provides an insight into the Taupo Volcanic Zone. There are many intercative displays and educational tours through to university level can be arranged.