• A lady standing over a lake

    Chasing waterfalls in Taupō: Discovering Huka Falls

November 16, 2021

For the most part, the mighty Waikato River – the longest in New Zealand – is a gentle giant, flowing at a tranquil pace as it travels north from Lake Taupō. That is however, until the 100-metre-wide river meets a 15-metre-wide volcanic rock canyon. Pushed and squeezed into a narrow ravine, its speed accelerates, its power intensifies, and suddenly, the pressure results in more than 220,000 litres of water a second erupting over an 11-metre-high gorge, creating the powerful visual spectacle of the Huka Falls.

This never-ending torrent of thundering waters is a truly mesmerising sight. Chances are you’ll hear the roar and rumble of the waters from afar before you even see the powerful phenomenon of the cascading falls. They’re a fine display of hydropower in action – and in fact, the amount of water blasting over Huka Falls would fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool in just 11 seconds!

A family looking over a waterfall in Taupo

Credit: Todd Eyre

As one of Taupō’s must-see attractions, no trip to the region is complete without witnessing these spectacular falls for yourself. For the ultimate combo, a Rapids Jet and River Cruise combo ticks all the boxes. Start your day with a leisurely scenic cruise aboard the Maid of the Falls, as you glide along the crystal-clear waters of the native tree-lined Waikato River. Their specially-designed boats allow you to feast on unparalleled views of Huka Falls from the large decks, and snap some fantastic photos. In fact, you’ll get so close to the base of the falls, you’ll even feel the spray of the powerful waters on your skin!

A red cruise boat at the base of Huka Falls waterfall

Credit: Huka Falls River Cruise

Afterwards, turn up the thrills and get ready for an exhilarating jetboat experience along the Waikato River! Just a few kilometres downstream from Huka Falls is the Aratiatia Dam, and it’s here where our 35-minute adrenaline blast begins. Satisfy your need for speed in the fast-flowing Aratiatia Rapids, and over the wild and untamed Nga Awapurua Rapids (the biggest commercially jet-boated rapids in New Zealand). With twists and turns, spins and squeezes galore, you’ll be laughing and grinning ear-to-ear after experiencing the world’s only white-water rapid jetboat ride.

People in a yellow jet boat catching a wave

Credit: Rapids Jet

If you’re hungry for more adventure, complete your day (or upgrade to an action-packed weekend) with a medley of nearby attractions to enjoy. Find out what all the buzz is about at Huka Honey Hive, where you can sample an incredible variety of pure New Zealand artisan honey products and witness the busy bees at work. Reach new heights and conquer the challenge at Rock n Ropes, by pushing your limits on high-wire bridges and giant swings and taking on the whopping 5-story high ‘leap of faith’ ledge jump. Huka Prawn Park offers Taupō’s only riverside alfresco dining (their giant garlic butter prawns are a must-try), and fun aquatic-themed activities like stand-up paddleboards, pedal boats and water trikes that will keep the kids busy.

Fuel up for a day of adventure or unwind with a bite to eat at a nearby café – Kefi at the Hub has plenty of yummy options. Get your nature fix with the leisurely 3km walking track from Spa Park to Huka Falls, as you wander alongside the picturesque Waikato River. Or if you prefer to soak up the scenery on two wheels, check out the nearby cycle trails like the Rotary Ride.

Just five minutes’ drive from Taupō town centre, an hour from Rotorua and two hours from Tauranga and Hamilton, a day of adventure at the awe-inspiring Huka Falls awaits you! Experience this iconic sight from all angles, and you’ll quickly discover why Huka Falls is New Zealand’s most-visited and most-photographed natural wonder.

Book your Rapids Jet and Huka Falls River Cruise combo online for just $139/adult (saving $32!).

Keep your eyes peeled! 👀 You never know what wildlife you might spot on our jet boating adventures. #RapidsJet #Taupo #NewZealand #LoveTaupo #NZtravel #Adrenaline #JetBoating #Aratiatia
Hold on tight! 🚤💨 Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping ride through the stunning waterways. Our expert guides will ensure you have a safe and exhilarating experience. #RapidsJet #Taupo #NewZealand #LoveTaupo #NZtravel #Adrenaline #JetBoating #Aratiatia
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘Epic ride on the Waikato River with Captain Jacob…..who is the coolest catfish to ever skim the river’s surface at 90 kmp……we laughed….we screamed…..we cheered…..we posed for photos…..and we walked away grinning, drenched and heads full of knowledge about jet boats, movies and the Waikato River…….totally rate this experience……especially with Captain Jacob’ - Rebecca Rawnsley #RapidsJet #Taupo #NewZealand #LoveTaupo #NZtravel #Adrenaline #JetBoating #Aratiatia
Sun’s out, boats out 🚤🌞 When are you planning your next ride with us?
Who’s ready to catch some serious air? 🚤💦 #RapidsJet #JetBoating #Taupo #LoveTaupo #NZtravel
I spy with my little eye... something yellow zipping down the Waikato River! 🚤 Who else is ready for a thrilling ride? Let us know in the comments 👇 #NZtravel #RapidsJet #LoveTaupo #JetBoating #Taupo
Our crew are all about making sure you have a great experience from start to finish – and making every spin and splash a memorable one! 💦 Join us on a thrilling adventure through the Waikato River, guided by our passionate and experienced drivers who love sharing the beauty of our waterways 🙌 #JetBoating #NZtravel #RapidsJet #LoveTaupo #meettheteam
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Five stars from Jess C. “Amazing and worth every cent! I booked last minute and was so glad. Simon the driver was awesome.... riding the rapids was way more fun than I realised. The boat was smooth, and the 360 spins were awesome!”. #RapidsJet #NZtravel #LoveTaupo #Taupo #JetBoating
Labour Day long weekend is just around the corner 🎉 Are you planning on joining us? We'll be open every day throughout the long weekend – ready to deliver your adrenaline fix! Whether you're visiting for a thrilling jet boat ride or for the breathtaking views, we have you covered. Make the most of your time off and come experience the excitement 🚤💨 #Taupo #LoveTaupo #NZtravel #RapidsJet #Labourweekend
Blue skies and adrenaline highs! 🌊💙 #RapidsJet #Taupo #NewZealand #LoveTaupo #NZtravel #Adrenaline #JetBoating
Experience the thrill of our Exclusive Aratiatia Ride! Watch as 80,000 liters of crystal-clear water rushes down from the Aratiatia Rapids, creating a stunning cascade 🌊✨ #rapidsjet #taupo #adrenaline #aratiatiarapids
The calm before the storm - or at least, the rapids 😎 #RapidsJet #Taupo #NewZealand #LoveTaupo #NZtravel #Adrenaline #JetBoating
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