Hidden Valley of Orakei Korako Cave/Thermal Park: Situated just 25 minutes north of Taupo and 45 minutes south of Rotorua nestled on the shores of Lake Ohakuri lies "The Hidden Valley" of Orakei Korako Cave and thermal park. Wander through a valley of unbelievable color, of bubbling hot springs, gushing geysers and unimaginable natural beauty preserved by its isolation from the outside world. Lonely Planet travelers guide writes ..."Orakei Korako is possibly the best thermal area left in New Zealand and one of the finest in the world.
Huka Falls Jet: Hukafalls jet is a 30-minute thrilled jet boat ride combining 360 degree spins and passing nature by incredibly close at disorientating speeds for an amazing must-do visitor experience, before even reaching the awe inspiring majesty that is the Huka Falls. From the unique vantage point on the jet boat you have the best water level view of Huka Falls - New Zealand's most visited natural attraction.
Half Day Sea Kayaking Trip to the Māori Rock Carvings: Explore Lake Taupo's beautiful coastline while learning about the region's incredible volcanic creation and about the area's local history. Lake Taupo has experienced at least 26 volcanic eruptions in the last 26,000 years, two of which were possibly some of the largest the world has experienced in recent geological times. These Māori Rock Carvings are over 10 metres high (possibly the largest of their type in the world) and are only accessible by boat or kayak. Sea Kayaking will allow you to get up close to the carvings with plenty of time to study their details. Hear about their history, how they were carved, and also about their cultural significance.
Privately Guided Whirinaki Walk: Begin with a short walk through the forest to the Whirinaki River, then continue along the river track with Mt Moerangi to your left. The loop track trails through the densest Rimu forest found in New Zealand, to the Whirinaki Falls. Included is interpretation by Maori guides whose ancestors have used the forest resources for centuries. Participants can expect to encounter an informative and educational experience delivered in a way that is entertaining and enjoyable. Weave a Taonga/gift to take home and enjoy lunch with your guide who will share stories of the local tribe and people, and Aotearoa.
Tongariro One Day Guided Walk: The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a 17km trek (8-9 hours) and is New Zealand’s best day one day walk. The track leads up to the saddle between Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Tongariro and then diverts over Mt Tongariro. Mt Ngauruhoe, although seen by most as a volcano in its own right, it is technically a secondary cone of Mount Tongariro. During your trek, your guide will share stories of ancestors including the mountains, local tribe & people, and Aotearoa NZ. The landscape on Tongariro is peppered with the different coloured and shaped craters, scoured volcanic rocks, active geothermal areas, mountain springs, and brightly coloured emerald lakes.
Fishing: In a country world famous for trout fishing, the Lake Taupo region is the best of the best. The trout here are legendary for their size, condition and attitude. Anything under 4 lb (1.8kg) is considered a minnow. A real New Zealand adventure is to hire a guide and explore some of the gin-clear streams and rivers of the region. Enjoy a half day (4 hours) or full day (8 hours) guided fly fishing expedition
or a 4 hour guided fishing experience on Lake Taupo.