Plenty of family-friendly adventures
With the kids off school and the sun (hopefully) shining, the school holidays are the perfect time to get out and explore the Waikato area’s backyard. Adventurer, writer and mum Ceana Priest looks at some of Taupō ’s best, family-friendly adventures.
Rangatira and Whakamoenga Points — Acacia Bay South
Volcanic rocks jutting out in the lake provide the launching pad for manu bombs or more sedate picnics overlooking the tranquil shoreline.
Allow about 30 minutes with youngsters to walk to the further Whakamoenga Point rocks, and make sure you slip, slop, slap and wrap as there’s no shade.
Need to know: Follow Acacia Bay Rd until the Private Access sign (near the third car park you’ll pass), where there is plenty of roadside parking. Only accessible for walking. Dogs on leads.
Otumuheke Stream Hot-pools — Spa Thermal Park
The colliding waters of the thermal Otumuheke Stream and the chilly Waikato River provide a soothing balm for families after a day of adventures. The area underwent a major refurbishment in late 2018 and has gone from a rustic gem to a busy destination. There are plenty of viewing platforms from which to survey the landscape for family members who aren’t keen to dip their toes.
Need to know: From Spa Thermal Park, follow the footpath down to the Waikato River for 10 minutes. Accessible for walking, buggies and bikes. Dogs on leads. Toilet and changing facilities available.
Ō pepe Northern Loop- SH5 Napier Taupō Highway
There are plenty of enormous trees to peer up into, clamber over and even ones with dark holes in their trunks to climb through — if the kids are brave enough. This 40-minutelong adventure is close to town and provides some respite during hot summer days.
The undulating trail passes through a mature podocarp forest with wizened trees that survived the area’s extensive fires and logging.
Need to know: Opepe Scenic and Historic Reserve is 17km from Taupō on the Napier Taupō Highway SH5. Suitable for walking. Dogs on leads.
Waipā hīhī Botanical Gardens — Waipā hīhī
This peaceful oasis is the result of more than five decades of hard graft by volunteers. Exploding in colour during October and November, the gardens have rare alpine plants, rhododendrons and camellias to admire. But, even now, heading here with a picnic to soak up the lake and volcanic peak views is still a mustdo.
There are plenty of trails meandering through the stands of native trees and ferns to explore.
Need to know: Access is from the corner of Shepherd Rd and Hyde Ave. Suitable for walking, buggies, wheelchairs and bikes. Dogs on leads.
Mapara Walkway Glow-worms — Acacia Bay
This isn’t a big adventure, but time it right, and it could be a highlight of your stay in Taupō. The small glowworm grotto comes alive with tiny shining orbs each night. The short walkway is pretty enough during the day but visit at night for the illuminated dangling threads of the glow-worm. Don’t forget a torch to navigate the steps and small boardwalk along the 20-minute return walk.
Need to know: The walkway joins Brunette Drive and Mapara Rd. Safest parking on Brunette Drive. Only accessible for walking. Dogs on leads.