Here are the best Tūrangi activities:
- Raft the Tongariro River
- Walk the Tongariro Crossing
- Experience the thrill of E-Mountain Biking
- Ride the Tree Trunk Gorge
- Raft Fishing on the Tongariro
- Family Wilderness Experience
- Play a round of Mini Golf
- Soak in the Hot Pools
- Private Tongariro Hunting Experience
- Visit the birthplace of the Haka
- Walk Around Lake Rotopounamu
- Swim in Lake Taupō
- Tokaanu Historic Wharf
- Korohe Horse Treks
1. Rafting on the Tongariro River
Without a doubt rafting is the absolute number one activity in Tūrangi. Rafting the Tongariro is an underrated way to see the great outdoors in an unspoiled environment. The water is clear and super clean, and people come from all over the world to experience it.
The Tongariro River is absolutely stunning. There are rare Blue Ducks from the Blue Duck conservation project, chilling out by the river, as well as large trout all throughout the river. Either side of the river features lush, green bush for most of the way.
People also love rafting because they are not a passenger – they love getting stuck in and paddling the raft down the river (along with a guide of course).
For families with kids, there are specific family rafting experiences such as the Family Floats – a safe and easy way to get started with rafting, that still has the excitement of rapids and white water.
For those 11 years of age and over, Grade 3 white water rafting is hugely popular. You’re on the water for around two to two and a half hours. There’s 60 rapids over 13 kilometres – super fun!
For those over 65 who have not rafted before, our Grade 2 experience is recommended. You need only minimal fitness and no previous experience. There are plenty of rapids, but nothing too extreme.
All equipment is provided – just bring togs and a towel.
2. The Tongariro Crossing
The Tongariro Crossing is one of the most well known and popular walks in NZ, and with good reason. People come from all over NZ and the world to do it. The walk became even more famous following the release of the Lord of the Rings films – you’ll take in Mount Doom (better known as Mt Ngauruhoe) and the location of Mordor.
The walk is 19km and takes around 6 hours for someone of average fitness. Start early to avoid the crowds and get the climbing done before the sun starts blazing. By starting early you’ll also get most of the climbing done before the sun starts blazing down on you.
Insider Tip: The crossing can be impacted by the weather. Give yourself two or three days in the district in case the track is closed. In winter months (May – October) take extra care – snow and ice are likely and a guided tour is recommended.
3. Experience the Thrill of E-Mountain Biking
Grab your mates and join Tongariro Wilderness Adventures for an unforgettable e-mountain biking adventure on their private land. They have a fleet of high quality e-mountain bikes ready for you to use, plus their very own on-site lodge with a roaring fireplace and stunning views.
4. Biking the Tree Trunk Gorge
While there are plenty of mountain bike trails in the Taupō region, the rides in Tūrangi are less well known but just as good. Tree Trunk Gorge was formed by eruptions from Lake Taupō and pyroclastic flows. It’s quite a technical ride for advanced riders and takes around two hours from start to finish. Tongariro Mountain Bikes offer guided trips or bike hire only.
5. Raft Fishing on the Tongariro
There are LOTS of trout in the Tongariro! Raft fishing is a unique way to catch them. Instead of paddling, we put an oar frame on the raft and row down the river – your job is simply to catch the fish. It’s a great way to spend the day, starting around eight and finishing around five. The dry fly fishing in the late summer months when the Cicadas are out is absolutely stunning.
6. Family Wilderness Experience
The deer and sheep are the stars of this show on this family wilderness adventure created with kids in mind. The animals roam around freely on Tongariro Wilderness Adventures’ private land, and you can feed them yourself while your guide tells you more about how these animals live. The kids will absolutely love getting back to nature.
7. Mini Golf at Tūrangi Adventure Mini Golf
The Tūrangi mini golf course was designed by a local farmer and represents a tour around Tongariro National Park – there’s a rafting hole, a fishing hole, ski fields and more. Continually rated as one of the top mini golf courses around the country. Heaps of fun for adults and kids alike. Allow 1 to 2 hours.
8. Hot Pools
The Tokaanu thermal pools have private pools and a public pool, open from eight till nine each day. One of the neat things about going down there is that the stream you cross via a bridge has quite a lot of trout in it. The private pools have natural thermal water, and the public pool is heated through a heat exchanger. There’s also a wonderful thermal walk that takes about half an hour – you’ll see boiling mud and crystal clear hot pools.
9. Private Tongariro Hunting Experience
Just a short drive from Tūrangi, 10,000 acres of private land operated by Tongariro Wilderness Adventures offers fully guided hunts (meat or trophy). Generally an overnight experience, staying in a modern, off-grid lodge. Simply put, one of the best hunting experiences in the central North Island!
10. Birthplace of the Haka
The Ka Mate Haka, performed by the All Blacks, was created just a stone’s throw away from Tūrangi. Opotaka is a historical Māori pa site (fortified village) where you can learn about the history of the Haka, see the remains of the Māori settlement, and get amazing views of Mt Tongariro across Lake Rotoaira.
11. Walk Around Lake Rotopounamu
Walk in the magnificent forest of Lake Rotopounamu to the sounds of birds and views of this crater lake. Rotopounamu means “Lake Greenstone” in Māori. The 2-hour loop walk takes you through forest to three beaches alongside the lake.
12. Swim in Lake Taupō
Take a swim in the largest freshwater lake in Australasia. The water in Lake Taupō is crystal-clear to a depth of 13 metres. You might think it’s cold, but we like to think of it as refreshing.
14. Tokaanu Historic Wharf
One of the hidden gems of the Taupō district. A beautiful spot for fishing, a picnic or a walk. The calm waters and stunning mountain background make for great photos during the day or at night.
14. Korohe Horse Treks
Time to get riding on horseback! A great activity for newbie or nervous riders, this is a unique experience that is a hit with all ages. Lots of trekking options catering for all ages – perfect for families or groups of mates.