Things To Do in Taupō for Families
17 September 2025 
Taupō is one of those places where making memories as a family comes easily. With its outdoor adventures, creative indoor experiences, and peaceful scenic spots, it’s a destination that offers many things to do in Taupō for families. Whether your family wants to solve puzzles, explore nature, or enjoy a relaxing cruise on the lake, Taupō makes sure fun and quality time go hand in hand.
Family-Friendly Activities in Taupō
Family Fun Raft Trip
Family Fun Raft Trip
Hawkes Bay
Come rafting on the beautiful Mohaka River and have fun with the whole family. This grade two section has small rapids with very scenic views as well.
The first recommendation for a family activity in Taupō is the Family Fun Raft Trip. This adventurous activity is sure to bring your family’s adrenaline and happiness levels up. During the trip, you get to explore the beautiful Mighty Mohoka River. Along with the beautiful river, you also get to explore the scenic environment that will give everyone a much-needed break from their daily lives and screens. The trip is 2 hours and is a safe grade 2 rafting trip that makes it suitable for children and adults.
So if you want your family and kids to explore the waters safely, this is a trip you dont;t want to miss when in Taupō. You also do not need to worry about any equipment, as all the safety supplies will be provided to you.
The Marvelous Circus - Escape Room Experience
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If your family enjoys a bit of mystery and fun teamwork, then The Marvelous Circus Escape Room is the perfect indoor activity in Taupō. This experience turns your family into the stars of the show as you take on the role of circus performers trying to save the act. With just 60 minutes on the clock, you’ll solve puzzles, crack clues, and hunt for the missing crystal ball before the curtain rises. It’s the kind of fun that gets everyone thinking, laughing, and working together.
This is a great way to bond with your kids and challenge each other in a creative and exciting way. Whether it’s your first escape room or your fifth, the storyline and interactive setup make it a memorable family outing. The experience is safe, entertaining, and suitable for a wide range of ages, making it ideal for both younger kids and teens.
Taupō Sailing Adventures
Taupō Sailing Adventures is the kind of family activity that mixes calm, comfort, and curiosity into one beautiful experience on the lake. Climb aboard the family-run sailing boat Kindred Spirit and enjoy a relaxed cruise across Lake Taupō, with plenty of space for everyone to stretch out and enjoy the ride. With cosy blankets, complimentary drinks, and even pizza on selected trips, it’s a great way to enjoy the scenery while keeping the whole family happy and entertained.
What makes this extra special for families is the chance to get involved! Kids can help hoist the sails, take a turn at the wheel, or simply soak in the views of the Māori Rock Carvings from the deck. For those who love water, there’s even a chance for a swim if the weather is good. It’s safe, spacious, and a lovely mix of learning and leisure for all ages.
The Candy Cottage - Escape Room Experience
The Enchanted Candy Forest - Escape Room Experience Taupō
Taupo
DIFFICULTY LEVELS: Standard 4/5, Advanced 4/5 At the heart of the enchanted forest stands the Tree of Life, the source of all life and magic. For thousands of years, the Forest Guardians and Fairies have protected i ...
For a fun family adventure with a twist of fantasy, The Candy Cottage Escape Room is a must-try in Taupō. Step into a sweet and slightly spooky fairytale, where your family must work together to escape a magical candy trap set by a wicked witch. With 60 minutes on the clock, it’s a race to solve the puzzles, follow the clues, and find your way out before you're turned into gingerbread!
This escape room is a great choice for families with older kids who love stories and challenges. The colourful setting, imaginative storyline, and teamwork make it an exciting indoor option that keeps everyone engaged and thinking. It’s an hour of pure creativity and connection. It is perfect for building memories that are just as sweet as the cottage itself.
Orakei Korako Geothermal Walk
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For a family day out that’s both fun and educational, the Orakei Korako Geothermal Walk is a truly unforgettable experience. Also known as the Hidden Valley, this place is packed with geysers, steaming terraces, and colourful geothermal features that feel like they’re from another planet. The adventure starts with a quick ferry ride, adding a bit of excitement right from the beginning.
Once you’re there, the 2.5km walk is an easy and safe trail, making it suitable for families with children. Along the way, you'll discover bubbling mud pools, one of the world’s only geothermal caves, and even New Zealand’s largest silica terraces. It’s a great chance to explore nature, spark curiosity, and spend quality time together. After the walk, you can relax at the café overlooking the lake while the kids chat about their day.
Final Thoughts
Taupō has a little something for every kind of family. Whether you're solving candy-themed mysteries, sailing across calm waters, or walking through steaming geothermal landscapes, these experiences are the perfect way to connect, laugh, and make memories together. So if you’re planning a family getaway, Taupō is ready to welcome you with loads of fun!