Live Like a Tourist

1. Rapids Jet

Looking for an exciting boat ride for the whole family? Or perhaps a thrilling spin on the river with a group of friends? Maybe even an exhilarating trip for you and your young-at-heart, surprisingly active granny? Look no further, and come join us on Taupō’s most exciting jet boat ride. We own it, we drive it, we care. Established in 1993, Rapids Jet is Taupō’s only locally owned and operated jet boat activity, and ranked number 1 on TripAdvisor for water-based activities in Taupō. The best part is: Every day is locals’ day! Bring proof of address and get the ride for $65 (normally $129). Find us, only 15 minutes from town, off SH5 into Aratiatia Road.

• 0800 727 437
• Rapids Road, Aratiatia, Taupō
• www.rapidsjet.com

2. Wairakei Golf & Sanctuary Locals’ Day

Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is holding a locals’ day on Saturday, 15th December. The perfect opportunity to play a championship golf course, set in a predator-free sanctuary, home to deer, pheasants, ducks, falcon, takahe and kiwi. Profits from the day will go towards Greening Taupō; the more players the greener Taupō becomes.

Price: $100 includes green fee and cart share. All players on the day will go in the draw to win a $150 Pro Shop voucher. Bookings essential, please phone us on 07 374 8152. Open to all Taupō residents. Dress standard and golf etiquette apply.

• 07 374 8152
• Wairakei Drive, Taupō
• www.wairakeigolfcourse.co.nz

3. Lakefun Taupo

Hire one of our self-drive family boats at your own leisure to explore and enjoy beautiful Lake Taupō. Go cruising, fishing, sightseeing, swimming and drive out to the Māori Rock Carvings only accessible by water. See the picturesque bays of Lake Taupō and the stunning Taupō Waterfront. The boat can seat up to 6 people, has a canopy and is ideal for the whole family. Can be used for wakeboarding, kneeboarding, biscuiting and has a stereo, rod holders, fish finder and comfortable seating. Prices range from $160 to $180 per hour
and includes fuel and life jackets. Conditions apply.

• 0800 876 882
• Ferry Road, Taupō
• www.lakefuntaupo.co.nz

4. Crafty Trout Brewery

This little gem is ‘Taupō’s Best Kept Secret’: a Boutique Brewery full of charm with brewery tours, a bottle store, fill-your-own flagons, giftware shop and  BierKAFE/Bar – a welcoming ambiance with handmade furnishings include a cosy fireplace and a sundrenched balcony. Discover why locals and tourists alike just keep coming back. Everything is
made fresh on-site with local produce:
from the 14 taps of their own handcrafted beers, ciders and non-alcoholic gingerbeer to the woodfired gourmet pizzas and handcut fries. The home baked pretzels are a must!

Family based in Taupō since the early 1960’s. Proud to be locally owned and operated.

• 07 929 8570
• 135 Tongariro Street, Taupō
• www.craftytrout.co.nz

5. Tongariro River Rafting

We are Tongariro’s most experienced rafting operator – we know this river like the back of our paddles so you couldn’t be in safer hands.
Whether you want to go fast with friends, or float with the family, our friendly guides will take you on a white water journey you won’t soon forget. With trips departing twice daily during summer you have no excuse not to come check out this amazing experience for yourself. If whitewater rafting doesn’t sound like your thing we also offer raft fishing and mountain biking. At Tongariro River Rafting, we’re 100% kiwi-owned and operated by local husband and wife team Garth and Leigh Oakden.

• 0800 10 10 24
• 95 Atirau Road, Turangi
• www.trr.co.nz

6. Huka Honey Hive

Huka Honey Hive is much more than just honey! Come and check out New Zealand’s largest showcase of honey products – 100% Pure New Zealand honeys, natural manuka honey skincare products and unique gift ideas plus an amazing range of natural health and wellbeing products. We offer free honey, mead and liqueur tastings; live beehives to view and fascinating interactive displays. Visit Café Hive @ 65 this summer and enjoy delicious ice creams, sundaes, coffees or teas. There’s something for the whole family – come and see what the ‘buzz’ is all about! Entry is free! Open 7 days, 9am to 5pm.

• 07 374 8553
• 65 Karetoto Road, Taupō
• www.hukahoneyhive.com

7. Wairakei Resort 9-Hole Golf Course

Only $15 or less year-round! Wairakei Resort’s Public 9-Hole Golf Course is perfect for beginners and seasoned pros alike. It’s a truly stunning, well sheltered course that is fun in all weather conditions. Don’t let the low price fool you, this is one of the best 9-holes in NZ! Twilight golfing is also running over summer making this the perfect place for a casual game after work. Golf club hire, golf balls and snacks & drinks are available at the golf inn and parking is free next to Wairakei Resort’s Fairways Café. Call the team for the seasonal opening hours today. 

• 07 374 9652
• Wairakei Road, Taupō
• www.wairakei.co.nz

8. Craters of the Moon

Craters of the Moon showcases the natural thermal activity of Taupō. Wooden boardwalks protect visitors from the heat of the soil and the tracks lead to viewing platforms on the edge of large craters, where the relentless power of the earth’s fiery core becomes apparent. You can view steam, hissing vents and colourful soils as you wander through the otherworldly terrain. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, you should allow up to 1 hour.  An awesome range of gifts and souvenirs can be purchased from our shop. Small admission fee applies. Taupō residents with proof are free of charge. Open every day from 8.30am.

• 027 656 4684
• 171 Karapiti Road, Wairakei Park, Taupō
• www.cratersofthemoon.co.nz