Fire and ice
Snow capped volcanoes, hot springs, boiling mud pools and silica terraces provide a fascinating insight into Lake Taupo's violent past
Explore an active geothermal area of mud pools, craters and steaming vents Soak in a geothermal hot spring Drive around the famous 'Volcanic Loop' highway to see Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe Take a Lake Taupo history lesson - learn about Lake Taupo's extraordinary volcanic history and visit the silica terraces that replicate the legendary Pink and White Terraces Ski on an active volcano - Mt Ruapehu is home to the Turoa and Whakapapa ski fields, the largest in New Zealand Natural heritage and maori culture
Experience the pristine natural rainforests and discover traditional Maori culture
Gain a fascinating insight into the customs and history of the Maori people - visit a replica Maori Village, watch cultural performances and taste a traditional hangi (feast) Walk through ancient rainforest in Whirinaki and Pureora Forest Parks, where some of New Zealand's rarest flora and fauna still thrive Hike through vast ancient beech forests in the rugged Kaimanawa Forest Park Walk the famous Tongariro Crossing or one of the other volcanic trails in the Tongariro National Park Take a jet boat or river cruise to the foot of Huka Falls and feel the thunder Visit the National Trout Centre at Turangi and discover New Zealand's angling heritage Adventure plus
Scare yourself silly with daredevil antics
Bungy jump off a platform over the Waikato River Tandem skydive for a jet's eye view of Lake Taupo Mountain bike through rugged, unspoilt bush - pick up a cycling map to find the best terrain Push your limits with 4x4 quad motor biking, off-road 2 wheel motorcycling, horse trekking, replica race car racing, rock climbing or mountain boarding on New Zealand's first mountain board terrain park Rip into river fun with jet boating, white water rafting, adventure kayaking or canoeing Dip into lake activities such as windsurfing, jet skiing, parasailing, water-skiing, wakeboarding and kayaking Indulgent time out
Relaxation, fresh air and peace comes with the territory
Take a boat or kayak and cruise around secluded coves and beaches. Visit the intricate Maori Rock carvings at Mine Bay - they're only accessible by water Capture an aerial view of the Tongariro National Park from a helicopter or floatplane Practice your swing on one of the region's six golf courses Soak your stress away in a geothermal hot pool Stroll through native bush or visit the botanical gardens. Pick up a list of private gardens open for viewing Dine out at one of the many restaurants or sample the seafood at a geothermal prawn farm Grab a map and follow the arts and crafts trail, or stroll the town's stylish shops Catch a rainbow or brown trout on Lake Taupo or go fly-fishing with a local guide on the Tongariro River
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