Defined by an ancient volcanic landscape with the largest freshwater lake in Australasia (plus more than 20 other lakes), thundering waterfalls, ancient native bush, the mighty Waikato River and Tongariro River and the volcanic mountains of the dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park, Taupo's spectacular natural features and scenic attractions can't be found anywhere else in the world.
Built and maintained by locals, the Taupō Bike Park is a staple to the growing BMX scene in the Taupō region. You can spend hours here, enjoying endless rounds of high-flying dirt jumps on your bike.
The Headland Loop Trail starts and finishes on the W2K Trail at the top of the headland between Kinloch and Whakaipo Bay.
Aratiatia Rapids is one of the most popular natural attractions in the North Island. Thousands of litres of water are released from the Aratiatia Dam creating a spectacular flow of water through a narrow gorge.
Taranaki Falls is a short easy walk in the UNESCO dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park.
You can combine these hiking tracks for a multi-night tramp with lush beech forest, river crossings and wildlife.