Family getaway

A trip to the Taupō region is a prerequisite migration for any family - it’s been a favourite family holiday spot for New Zealanders for decades. Pile in the car, and make a bee-line for the great lake - I spy golf courses and family fun galore!

On arrival, simply get checked in to your chosen place to stay and get ready to tackle Taupō. We’ve got cosy and carefree stays, along with options that are perfect for the family. 

Most accommodation options are handy to the town centre - be sure to get the family snap at the #LoveTaupō sign. And just a pitching wedge away, is the Lake Taupō Hole in One Challenge where you can see if Dad is really as good as he says. Or, the whole whānau can practice their putt game at Taupō Mini Golf. 

Everyone has a swing, everyone has a laugh - the loser is on dishes?

A couple of good arrival activities to explore Taupō from the water are the renowned and relaxing Earnest Kemp Scenic Cruise. They do two-hour cruises twice daily (10:30am, 2:00pm), but check for their weekend schedules - they are the Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings cruise specialists (also dog friendly!).

Another way to see Taupō from the water is the Huka Falls River Cruise, where you can get up close and personal with the majestic Huka Falls. For something a bit faster, Rapids Jet or Hukafalls Jet will be sure to have the family wide awake for the next adventure!

For dinner, bring the whole family to Dixie Browns, a fantastic spot right in the heart of town, perfect for a delightful meal together. With their diverse and extensive menu, there's something for everyone, including special treats for the kids. Don't miss the rotating dessert display cabinet, a delightful sight that'll make your mouths water!

NOTE: If you’re travelling north to Taupō, a fun option could be to stay a night at Tūrangi, from there you can golf at Tūrangi Golf Course. A Tongariro River Trail ride, or perhaps a walk around The Pillars of Hercules in the Kaimanawa Forest Park is an ideal way to get the family connected.

For a completely unique breakfast experience, head out to Acacia Bay to the whimsical L'Árte Cafe. This café and gallery are set in a magical, art-filled garden, complete with an outside mosaic living room.

From there, head over to the lakeside village of Kinloch on the western shores of Lake Taupō, where you'll find The Kinloch Village Golf Club for a low-key option for entry-level or family fun golf outings. With 10 holes, the ten-green parklands can be played as an 18-hole routing, depending on your speed or how hungry you are for more golf. Neighbouring the championship course of The Kinloch Golf Club, the village course is super fun, well presented, light on the wallet and provides the perfect, playable and short option to introduce beginners to the game.

PRO TIP: Consider playing alternate shots with family members if they’re just getting started. Forget your own ball for the outing and just enjoy the walk together. It’s a fun challenge to try and make a par together as a pair/team. 

For a further golf activity at the other end of the day, you can take on the challenge of our new Swingers Putt Putt 18-hole mini putt. A modern and hilarious place to refine your putting prowess. Open 7 days and situated at The Landing, with Mavericks Gastro Pub next door for family dinner options and a licenced bar (yusss) - the ideal place to unwind and laugh about the days’ great moments.

Time to check out and mosey on home. But before you do that, we have some more suggestions to ensure your family golf getaway is a winner.

Wairakei Resort 9-Hole Golf Course (temporarily closed) is open to both resort guests and the public. Enjoy a fun round on the 34-par course and afterwards, meet family and friends at the 19th Hole Bar. Short and unintimidating, fun and friendly - yet another ideal option for families or golfers new to the fairways to discover the game at their own pace.

Ever considered disc golf? We’ve got one of the best courses in the country here in Taupō, and it’s a hilariously good time for all the family. Treat the winner(s) to an ice cream from Lil Something Cafe, and enjoy the natural hot springs at Otumuheke Stream. 

To burn off last-minute energy, take the whole family on the 3km walk from Spa Thermal Park to Huka Falls. 

It’s fair to say that Taupō’s charming golf courses are not just for sorta serious golfers, but also for families seeking bonding moments and lighthearted fun. See you soon!