Hukafalls Jet is the only jet boat operator that takes you right up to the base of the Huka Falls. They are based at Wairakei Park just north of Taupo and the 30-minute ride on the Waikato River goes right up to the base of the Huka Falls.
Jet boating to the base of the Huka Falls
Rock ‘n’ Ropes high ropes course
The Rock ‘n’ Ropes high ropes course just north of Taupo features a number of activities that are designed to both build confidence and scare the shit out of anyone with a fear of heights. The three main activities are the high beam, the giant trapeze and the thrilling giant swing. It is a good value half day and a highly recommended activity that some people say is scarier than bungee jumping or skydiving.
Huka Falls
The Huka Falls is one of New Zealand’s most powerful (and definitely the most-visited) waterfalls.
The falls occur at a spot where the Waikato River narrows from a width of around 100m down to a narrow 15m-wide canyon and the volume of water passing through the falls is often close to 220,000 litres per second.
Most buses and motorists stop off here to and from Taupo, but the most rewarding way to visit is by hiking the Huka Falls Track that begins at the Spa Thermal Centre on Spa Road in Taupo.
It is possible to take a jet boat ride right up to the base of the falls.
Taupo Cliffhanger Swing
The Taupo Cliffhanger Swing is an alternative to bungee jumping. It involves being strapped into a harness on the Taupo Bungy platform; then once the release cord is pulled, you freefall before swinging in an 180º arc over the Waikato River at speeds up to 70km/h.
You have the option of either a solo or tandem swing and there are combo deals if you want to do both the bungee jump and Cliffhanger Swing.
Like most activities in Taupo, this is a cheaper alternative to similar swings that operate in Queenstown.
Bungee jumping in Taupo
Taupo Bungy operate the North Island’s most popular bungee jump from a 47m platform above the Waikato River, north of town near the Huka Falls. This bungee jump site gives you the option of a water touch in the refreshing waters of the Waikato River and you also have the option of either a solo or tandem bungee jump.
Like most activities in Taupo, Taupo Bungy is a better value alternative to bungee jumping in the South Island.
Craters of the Moon
Craters of the Moon is a unique lunar landscape that is the result of the 1954 explosion during construction of the Wairakei geothermal power station.
There are a several walking tracks that let you see the geothermal activity including the main loop track (45 minutes) that takes you through this active thermal area that features craters, mud pools and steam vents plus the Top Track (an additional 20 minutes) that takes you to the upper lookout.
Taupo i-SITE Visitor Information Centre
Tairua Information Centre
Boat trips to Cathedral Cove
Although Hahei is closer to the Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve, there are several boat trips that depart from Whitianga including Cave Cruzer and Cathedral Cove Scenic Cruises.