• Tandem skydivers

    Discover the beauty of Taupō from a new perspective

March 7, 2022

Venture beyond Lake Taupō and the township, and you’ll quickly discover that Taupō’s surrounds are full of surprises! Explore remote crater lakes, relaxing nature walks, thrilling boat rides and awe-inspiring helicopter flights – you’ll be surprised just how much fun you can have when you go beyond and seek out the region’s hidden gems. 

On the water 

Rapids Jet 

Immerse yourself in the cobalt blue waters of the Waikato River on a high-flying, full-power jetboating experience! Hold on tight and feel the adrenaline take over as you fly through twists and curves, and enjoy the thrill of ‘surfing’ on the legendary Nga Awa Purua Rapids’ pressure waves. Squeeze through rugged canyons, speed along the straights and go for a spin or three in the magnificent clear waters. 

Aerial view of a jet boat riding down rapids

 

Go fish!

Taupō and Tongariro’s waterways are abundant with wild rainbow and brown trout. The gin-clear waters attract first-timers and pro anglers alike, looking to hook the big one! Cast your line in the world-class backcountry rivers during winter and still water lakes in summer local guides are on hand to provide gear and inside knowledge on the best spots and techniques to get that perfect catch. 

A man fishing with a sunset in the background

In the air 

Take the ultimate leap from up to 18,500 feet 

Skydiving in Taupō is a must-do for every thrill-seeker’s bucket list. Strap in and get set to jump – during the exhilarating freefall you’ll be surrounded by surreal coast-to-coast views of the North Island, before the parachute deploys and you’re gliding above the mountains and lakes below. Taupō Tandem Skydiving offer four different heights to choose from – 9,000 feet, 12,000 feet, 15,000 feet, or the new 18,500 feet – which includes a freefall of up to 75 seconds! 

Tandem skydivers

 

Discover Taupō by helicopter 

For a more relaxed adventure in the air, Heli Adventure Flights’ range of tours offer jaw-dropping aerial views of Taupō’s popular and secluded sights from above – including the ferocious Huka Falls, the famed Māori Rock Carvings, the flowing Waikato River, and the bubbling Craters of the Moon.  

Aerial view of Huka Falls

 

Take to the skies and go parasailing 

If you’ve never parasailed before, you’re missing out! Gain an appreciation for Lake Taupō (without needing to jump!) as you soar up to 1000ft above the surface and gaze at its spectacular beauty. Team up with your partner or up to two friends and enjoy this unique airborne adventure, on offer seasonally during the warmer months. 

A parasailer in the sky

On the trails 

Meet Mount Tauhara 

At 1,088 metres tall, the summit of Mt Tauhara offers incredible panoramic views over Lake Taupō and the central North Island plateau. Catch the sunrise or sunset over Aotearoa’s largest lake and capture a magical snap for the ‘gram. This 2.8km, intermediate-level track is a challenging yet rewarding hike, so ensure you’re well-prepared. 

A mountain with a sunrise in the background

 

Escape to the Pureora Forest 

No, you’re not dreaming – although the enchanting Pureora Forest Park can often feel like a fairytale world! This 78,000ha ancient forest is home to giant native trees and colourful bird life, and an ideal spot to truly get away from it all. The Waihora Lagoon is a particular highlight – stroll along the boardwalk amongst towering kahikatea and rimu trees and admire the reflective lagoon, as you soak up the peace and tranquillity.   

An aerial shot of Waihora Lagoon

 

Ride the Great Lake Trail 

One of New Zealand’s 22 Great Rides, this trio of trails offers an eclectic mix of lakeside and volcanic views to suit intermediate and advanced-level riders. This interconnected network of routes can be tackled on their own or woven together to create the ultimate two or three day itinerary. Join the growing number of cyclists who can claim they’ve ridden the rim of a super volcano! Towering cliffs, hidden waterfalls, stunning wetlands and more natural wonders await – so grab a bike and get set for a two-wheeled adventure like no other. 

A cyclist in the forest

 

Do something new on your next trip to Taupō and go beyond the lake – spend some time diving deeper into the native bush, geothermal parks and crater lakes that adorn the area. Taupō is the perfect holiday destination for nature lovers and thrill seekers alike – so it’s time to find your new favourite spots! 

 

Experience the natural beauty of Taupō like never before 🏞️ When you can’t decide between adventure and awe – do both! The best way to enjoy the mighty Huka Falls and the incredible Aratiatia Dam is with our Rapids Jet and River Cruise combo. #hukafalls #PureNewZealand #NZMustDo #ExploreNZ #RapidsJet #JetBoatingNZ #ExploreTaupō #RiverAdventure #TaupōThrills
Like a theme park in the wild 👌💦 Thank you for sharing this video @explorefeelgood – looks like you had so much fun! 🤩
This Christmas, give the gift of adrenaline and adventure! Faster than Santa’s sleigh, let your friends and family speed through the twists and turns of the Waikato River aboard Rapids Jet 🎄 Check out our website for easy e-gift vouchers. #christmasgifts #PureNewZealand #NZMustDo #ExploreNZ #RapidsJet #JetBoatingNZ #ExploreTaupō #RiverAdventure #TaupōThrills
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review – “The team were very friendly and made the rainy experience worth it! Jacob the driver took the time to check on us throughout the trip and was awesome! Would highly recommend!” Thanks for your epic feedback, Brianna C! #PureNewZealand #NZMustDo #ExploreNZ #RapidsJet #JetBoatingNZ #ExploreTaupō #RiverAdventure #TaupōThrills
Hold on tight, we're about to conquer some epic rapids! 🚤 Are you up for the challenge? Thanks for sharing this awesome photo, @karen36laken #PureNewZealand #NZMustDo #ExploreNZ #RapidsJet #JetBoatingNZ #ExploreTaupō #RiverAdventure #TaupōThrills
Dive into adventure with Rapids Jet! Let's ride the mighty Waikato River together 🌊 #PureNewZealand #NZMustDo #ExploreNZ #RapidsJet #JetBoatingNZ #ExploreTaupō #RiverAdventure #TaupōThrills
Trick or Treat? 🎃 What are your plans this Halloween? Choose “treat” and come along for some spins on the jetboat and just the right level of scaries! #RapidsJet #JetBoatingNZ #TaupoThrills #NaturePlayground #AdrenalineRush #ExploreTaupo #RiverAdventure #AotearoaAdventures #PureNewZealand #NZMustDo #ExploreNZ #KiwiAdventures #TravelNZ #halloween
From tranquil waters to adrenaline-pumping rapids, our jet boat adventure offers the best of both worlds. What was your favourite part of the ride? 🏞️🚤 #RapidsJet #JetBoatingNZ #TaupoThrills #NaturePlayground #AdrenalineRush #ExploreTaupo #RiverAdventure #AotearoaAdventures #PureNewZealand #NZMustDo #ExploreNZ #KiwiAdventures #TravelNZ
Put your hands up if you’re ready for the long weekend ahead! 🙌 We’re open every day throughout the long Labour Weekend for your adrenaline fix. Don’t just take our word for it, here’s Jo’s thoughts she shared on Facebook: “Fun and exciting jet ride! Awesome crew and informative friendly tour guide. Thanks Jacob, Shannon, and team Rapids Jet. We loved our experience! Definitely a must-do activity in Taupō!”' #RapidsJet #JetBoatingNZ #TaupoThrills #NaturePlayground #AdrenalineRush #ExploreTaupo #RiverAdventure #AotearoaAdventures #PureNewZealand #NZMustDo #ExploreNZ #KiwiAdventures #TravelNZ
An epic adventure awaits as we glide through the water, leaving a trail of excitement in our wake. Join us for a thrilling experience! 💦 #RapidsJet #JetBoatingNZ #TaupoThrills #NaturePlayground #AdrenalineRush #ExploreTaupo #RiverAdventure #AotearoaAdventures #PureNewZealand #NZMustDo #ExploreNZ #KiwiAdventures #TravelNZ
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Taupō from a whole new perspective. Jump aboard and explore nature's playground in speed and style 🏞️ 🌄 #RapidsJet #JetBoatingNZ #TaupoThrills #NaturePlayground #AdrenalineRush #ExploreTaupo #RiverAdventure #AotearoaAdventures #PureNewZealand #NZMustDo #ExploreNZ #KiwiAdventures #TravelNZ
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