Great Activities to Try These School Holidays

Lifestyle
September 5, 2018

Written by
Erin Harrison

The spring school holidays are almost here – but never fear, you’re in Taupo, and there is always plenty on to keep all ages entertained! This time of the year the weather can be a bit of a mixed bag, so it’s best to consider both indoor and outdoor activities.

Orakei Korako

If exploring is your thing, why not check out the Orakei Korako Cave and Thermal Park only 25 minutes north of Taupō. The Lonely Planet Guide describes it as ‘arguably the best thermal area left in New Zealand’ – and it’s right on our doorstep!

Great fun for the whole family (even the dog), it is just a short boat ride across the lake – from the visitor centre to the geothermal attraction – where you will be free to wander through the Hidden Valley, and also visit the thermal Ruatapu Cave, which extends more than 36 metres down into volcanic rock to the ‘Pool of Mirrors’ hot pool at the bottom. It’s an exciting volcanic world of gushing geysers, hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and some of the most amazing silica terraces in the world.

Get on your bike

Why not head out for some fresh air and tackle one of the top 10 rides around Great Lake Taupō – we’re home to some of the best tracks in New Zealand! From the Great Lake Walkway around the lake front to the Tongariro River Trail, Craters Mountain Bike Park and many more. Don’t have a bike? No worries, there are plenty of outlets around town that hire them for a half or full day.

Go-Karting at Bruce McLaren Motorsport Park

Do your kids have a need? A need for speed? Check out one of the most exciting new attractions to hit town – kart racing! From 90 cc karts suitable for older kids to drive alone, to tandem karts, there’s no doubt that this is one thrill-seeking activity not to be missed these school holidays. From tight twists and turns to straights that will have your foot to the floor, the track has something for everyone in the family, as well as a viewing area for the cheer team and a café to refuel afterwards.

School Holiday Programme

Also, don’t forget to check out the fantastic school holiday programmes run by the Taupō Museum and Taupō Library – these are always free activities for a range of ages, and are often perfect for rainy days. Check out their Facebook pages or visit the Taupō District Council website for more information.