Taupo, New Zealand, is a destination known for its stunning natural beauty and thrilling outdoor activities. However, beyond the usual tourist attractions, there are plenty of unusual things to do in Taupo that will make your visit truly memorable. From exploring hidden caves to soaking in natural hot springs, Taupo offers a range of unique experiences for adventurous travelers. Whether you’re seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures or quirky attractions, Taupo has something special in store for you. Read on to discover the most unusual things to do in Taupo, New Zealand, and make your trip unforgettable.
Skydiving over Lake Taupo
Essential Information
– Address: Taupo Airport, Anzac Memorial Drive, Taupo, New Zealand
– Opening Hours: Daily, weather permitting
– Fee: Starting from $299
– Visit Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours
– Ideal for: Thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
Skydiving over Lake Taupo offers a unique and exhilarating experience that is not easily found elsewhere. The stunning backdrop of Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand, adds an extra element of thrill to this already heart-pounding adventure.
As you soar through the sky, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the crystal-clear waters of Lake Taupo below you. The contrast between the deep blue of the lake and the lush greenery of the surrounding landscape creates a picture-perfect setting for your skydiving adventure.
What sets skydiving over Lake Taupo apart is the opportunity to freefall from heights of up to 15,000 feet, giving you an adrenaline rush like no other. The feeling of weightlessness as you plummet towards the earth is both terrifying and exhilarating, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Once your parachute opens, you’ll have the chance to take in the panoramic views of Lake Taupo and the surrounding mountains from a unique vantage point. The peaceful descent back to earth allows you to appreciate the beauty of the landscape below in a way that few others ever will.
Overall, skydiving over Lake Taupo is a one-of-a-kind experience that combines the thrill of freefalling with the beauty of New Zealand’s natural scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned skydiver or a first-timer looking for an unforgettable adventure, this unusual attraction is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Bungy jumping at Taupo Bungy
Essential Information
– Address: 202 Spa Road, Taupo 3330, New Zealand
– Opening hours: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm daily
– Fee: Starting from $169 NZD
– Visit duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
Bungy jumping at Taupo Bungy offers a unique twist to the traditional bungy experience. Unlike typical bungy jumps from bridges or platforms, Taupo Bungy takes the plunge to the next level by offering a water touch option. This means that as you freefall towards the crystal-clear waters of the Waikato River, you have the chance to dip your head or even your whole body into the refreshing liquid below.
Moreover, Taupo Bungy provides the opportunity for tandem jumps, allowing you to share the adrenaline rush with a friend or loved one. The thrill of leaping off the cantilever platform together, feeling the wind rush past you as you descend towards the water, creates a bond like no other.
For those seeking an even more exhilarating experience, Taupo Bungy offers a night jump option. Plunging into the darkness with only the stars above and the river below adds an extra element of excitement to an already heart-pounding adventure.
In addition to the unique jump experiences, Taupo Bungy also provides the chance to capture your leap of faith with professional photos and videos, ensuring that you have lasting memories of your daring feat.
Overall, the combination of water touch jumps, tandem options, night jumps, and professional photo services make bungy jumping at Taupo Bungy an unusual and unforgettable experience for thrill-seekers visiting Taupo, New Zealand.
Huka Falls Jet Boat Ride
Essential Information
– Address: 200 Karetoto Road, Wairakei, Taupo 3377, New Zealand
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
– Fee: Starting from $125 per person
– Visit Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
– Ideal for: Thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
The Huka Falls Jet Boat Ride in Taupo, New Zealand, offers a unique and exhilarating experience for visitors seeking an adrenaline rush. Unlike traditional sightseeing tours, this jet boat ride takes you on a high-speed adventure through the stunning waters of the Waikato River, showcasing the natural beauty of the Huka Falls in a thrilling way.
What sets this experience apart is the combination of speed, skillful maneuvering, and the breathtaking backdrop of the powerful Huka Falls. As you zip along the river at speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour, you’ll feel the wind in your hair and the spray of the water on your face, creating a sensory experience like no other.
The skilled jet boat drivers expertly navigate the narrow canyons and turbulent waters, performing thrilling spins and turns that will leave you on the edge of your seat. The rush of adrenaline as you speed towards the iconic Huka Falls, with its striking blue waters crashing down in a spectacular display of nature’s power, is truly unforgettable.
For those seeking a unique and unforgettable adventure in Taupo, the Huka Falls Jet Boat Ride offers an exciting blend of speed, nature, and adrenaline that is sure to leave you with lasting memories of your visit to this beautiful region of New Zealand.
Soak in the Otumuheke Stream hot pools
Essential Information
– Address: Spa Park, Taupo, New Zealand
– Opening Hours: 24/7
– Fee: Free
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Nature lovers, relaxation seekers
Why is it so unusual
The Otumuheke Stream hot pools in Taupo, New Zealand, offer a unique experience for visitors seeking a natural thermal soak. What sets these pools apart is the fact that they are nestled within a river, allowing guests to enjoy the warmth of the geothermal waters while being surrounded by the coolness of the flowing stream.
Unlike traditional hot springs, where you typically find yourself in a confined pool, at Otumuheke Stream, you can alternate between the soothing heat of the thermal waters and the refreshing chill of the river. This contrast creates a one-of-a-kind sensation that is both invigorating and relaxing.
Visitors can also indulge in a natural spa experience by taking advantage of the river rocks that line the stream, providing the perfect spot for a DIY hot stone massage. The mineral-rich waters are said to have healing properties, making the soak not only enjoyable but also beneficial for your skin and overall well-being.
For those looking to add a bit of adventure to their relaxation, the Otumuheke Stream hot pools offer the opportunity to explore the surrounding area, with walking trails that lead to picturesque viewpoints and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or a unique outdoor experience, soaking in the Otumuheke Stream hot pools is sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated and connected to nature.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing night hike
Essential Information
– Address: Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Tongariro National Park, Taupo, New Zealand
– Opening hours: Night hikes are usually not recommended due to safety concerns, but guided night hikes may be available on special occasions.
– Fee: Varies depending on the tour operator, typically starting from $100 per person.
– Visit duration: Approximately 8-10 hours for the full crossing.
– Ideal for: Adventurous hikers looking for a unique experience.
Why is it so unusual
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is renowned for its stunning landscapes and challenging terrain, attracting hikers from around the world. However, embarking on a night hike along this iconic trail offers a completely different perspective and a sense of adventure that few get to experience.
As the sun sets and darkness envelops the rugged terrain, the landscape transforms into a mysterious and ethereal realm. Guided by the soft glow of headlamps, hikers navigate the rocky paths and volcanic terrain under the starlit sky, creating a surreal and unforgettable atmosphere.
One of the most unusual aspects of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing night hike is the opportunity to witness the sunrise from the summit of Red Crater. As the first light of dawn breaks over the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange, hikers are treated to a breathtaking spectacle that few ever get to witness.
Another unique feature of the night hike is the chance to stargaze in one of the world’s few Dark Sky Reserves. Away from the city lights, the night sky above Tongariro National Park comes alive with a dazzling display of stars, planets, and constellations, offering a rare glimpse into the beauty of the universe.
For those seeking a truly extraordinary adventure, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing night hike provides a thrilling and unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Parasailing on Lake Taupo
Essential Information
– Address: Lake Taupo, Taupo, New Zealand
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
– Fee: Starting from $99 per person
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Adventure seekers, thrill enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
Parasailing on Lake Taupo offers a unique and thrilling experience for visitors seeking an adrenaline rush amidst stunning natural surroundings. What sets this activity apart is the opportunity to soar high above the crystal-clear waters of Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake, while being towed by a speedboat. The feeling of weightlessness as you glide through the air, with the vast expanse of the lake stretching out below you, is truly exhilarating.
Unlike traditional parasailing experiences, Lake Taupo provides a picturesque backdrop of snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and the impressive Huka Falls in the distance. The combination of breathtaking scenery and the rush of flying high above the water makes parasailing on Lake Taupo a must-try activity for adventure enthusiasts.
As you ascend to heights of up to 400 feet, you’ll have the chance to take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park and the rugged terrain of the Central Plateau. The feeling of freedom and excitement that comes with parasailing on Lake Taupo is unmatched, making it a truly unforgettable experience for those looking to add a touch of adventure to their New Zealand itinerary.
Whether you’re a first-time parasailer or a seasoned thrill-seeker, the unique setting of Lake Taupo and the unparalleled views it offers make this activity a standout attraction in the region. So, if you’re ready to take your vacation to new heights, don’t miss the chance to experience the thrill of parasailing on Lake Taupo.
Rock climbing at Froggatt Edge
Essential Information
– Address: Froggatt Edge, Taupo, New Zealand
– Opening Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
– Fee: Varies depending on guided tours or equipment rental
– Visit Duration: Half-day to full-day
– Ideal for: Adventure enthusiasts and rock climbing enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
Rock climbing at Froggatt Edge in Taupo, New Zealand offers a unique experience for thrill-seekers looking to challenge themselves in a stunning natural setting. What sets Froggatt Edge apart is the diverse range of climbing routes that cater to both beginners and experienced climbers. The unusual aspect of this attraction lies in the opportunity to climb on volcanic rock formations, providing a distinct and exciting challenge.
One of the standout features of Froggatt Edge is the presence of natural rock arches and overhangs that add an extra element of excitement to the climbing experience. Climbers can test their skills on these unconventional structures, adding a sense of adventure to their ascent. Additionally, the panoramic views of Lake Taupo and the surrounding lush landscape create a breathtaking backdrop for climbers as they conquer the rugged terrain.
For those seeking a more unconventional climbing experience, Froggatt Edge offers the chance to tackle unique bouldering routes that require agility and problem-solving skills. The intricate rock formations present a puzzle-like challenge for climbers, making each ascent a rewarding and memorable experience.
Overall, the unusual appeal of rock climbing at Froggatt Edge lies in the combination of diverse climbing routes, volcanic rock formations, natural arches, and stunning views. Whether you’re a seasoned climber looking for a new challenge or a beginner eager to try something different, Froggatt Edge promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Taupo, New Zealand.
