Why Taupo is New Zealand’s next action adventure destination

From bungee jumping into Waikato River and skydiving experiences over snow-capped mountains, Taupo has plenty to offer adventure travellers.

The Great Lakes Trail is just one of Taupo's many action-packed adventures.​
  • Belinda Luksic
  • August 2019

Up the adrenaline factor with these six thrilling activities in glorious Taupo - New Zealand’s next must-go destination for adventurers.

Scenic trails

Panoramic vistas are just part of the fun along the magnificent 71-kilometre Great Lake Trail, a two-day cycle interspersed with boat shuttle transfers linking sections of the track.

Off-grid hikes

Stunning remote wilderness is a helicopter-flight away on a full-day guided trek in the Kaimanawa Forest Park with Chris Jolly Outdoors. The challenging heli-hike isn’t on their website, so enquire via phone or email.

Take the plunge

Dive headlong into Waikato River from New Zealand’s highest water-touch bungee jump opens in new window or try the feet-first Cliffhanger extreme swing.

The Taupo Bungee jump is not for the faint of heart
The Taupo Bungee jump is not for the faint of heart.

Sky high

Get your heart racing and join the thousands of tandem skydivers who make the leap each year with Skydive Taupo. They even offer limousine pick-up within Taupo so you can arrive in style!

Thumbs up for a tandem jump with Skydive Taupo.
Thumbs up for a tandem jump with Skydive Taupo.

Bird’s-eye view

Take a 20-minute scenic flight for views of Lake Taupo, Huka Falls and the boiling geothermal hotspot, Craters of the Moon.

Ride the wave

Shoot through the Waikato River in a custom-built V8 jet boat, an exhilarating fast-paced ride with 360-degree turns and jumps.