We are spoilt for choice when it comes to beautiful walks in Taupo. Here are my favourite family friendly tracks.
Walking is one of my favourite activities. I love heading out with my kids, my dog, or just by myself to clear my head! I’m really lucky to have so many stunning walks on my doorstep as well as some only a short drive away. Taupo is full of beautiful scenery and incredible natural features.
Happy exploring, VJ x
Opepe Bush Walk
Located 10 minutes out of Taupo, just off the Napier Highway sits the Opepe Bush Historic Reserve. This is probably our favourite family walk in Taupo. The northern loop track is 1.5km long and takes between 30-45 minutes to walk continuously. However, young kids love looking at all the amazing, ginormous native trees and listening to the bird life. We can easily spend over an hour in there.
Great Lake Walkway/ Lion’s walk
The Great Lake Walkway is a 10km paved walkway, running from the Taupo Boat Harbour to 5 Mile Bay. The easy route, with only a few undulating rises, is popular with walkers, runners, cyclists, young families, and is also dog friendly. With the stunning mountains of the Tongariro National Park as a backdrop and plenty of places to stop for food, drink and to swim along the way, this walkway has it all.
Waipahihi Botanical Gardens
The Waipahihi Botanical Gardens are impressive all year around. There are of course, stunning seasonal blooms from the Rhododendrons, Magnolias and Cherry Blossoms in the Spring. However, at any time of the year you can escape the heat, or the wind by taking one of dozens of meandering paths through the bush. The autumnal leaves are particularly beautiful! Young kids will love looking for rocks and treasure chests to put them in. Family and dog friendly.
Rangatira Point
Located only a short drive from town in Acacia Bay lies the gentle and enjoyable Rangatira Point Track. A great track for young families, the walk takes you through native bush to the edge of Lake Taupo where you can enjoy amazing views back to Taupo Town Centre and beyond. In summer it’s a fun place to sunbathe and swim!
Mount Tauhara
The Mount Tauhara hike is a challenging and fun walk with epic views of Lake Taupo and the Central North Island! The first section through the paddock can be steep in places but soon enough you’ll be in the cool bush. There are a few tree roots and rocks to navigate on the track but that’s all part of the fun! I would recommend this walk for school aged children and older. Allow 3 hours to complete the return trip as well as getting some great photos at the top!
Spa Park to Huka Falls
An iconic walk through native bush between two natural water features; Spa Thermal Park and Huka Falls. I would recommend starting the Spa Park to Huka Falls walk from the Spa Park car park. Wind through stunning native bush alongside the Waikato River, view the mighty Huka Falls in all their glory, then head back to Spa Thermal Park for a soak in the restorative thermal waters. Allow 2 – 3 hours to complete the walk and have a soak. Suitable for school aged children and over.
Image courtesy of Love Taupo
For more inspiration and ideas on Taupo activities, be sure to check out my blog post
Taupo – My Favourite Free Activities
