Family-Friendly Day Trips from Taupō – Top Picks for 2025
Explore the Best Family Day Trips from Taupō in 2025
Taupō is the ideal base for exploring the central North Island with kids. With its central location, stunning lake views, and wide range of family-friendly accommodation, Taupō offers easy access to some of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations. From geothermal parks and Māori cultural sites to magical glowworm caves and movie sets, these day trips are fun, safe, and suitable for all ages.
If you’re planning a 2025 family holiday in New Zealand, here are the top family-friendly day trips from Taupō that promise adventure, relaxation, and lifelong memories.
Tongariro National Park – Nature and Adventure for All Ages
Just under an hour’s drive from Taupō, Tongariro National Park is a world-renowned destination offering spectacular scenery and accessible walking tracks suitable for families.
- Taranaki Falls Track: A 6 km loop featuring a beautiful waterfall, open grasslands, and native bush. Moderate difficulty, great for kids who enjoy a bit of adventure.
- Whakapapa Nature Walk: A gentle 15-minute loop, perfect for younger children or older family members who prefer a leisurely pace.
- Winter Adventures: During winter, short snow play trips around Whakapapa Village let kids enjoy snow without a full ski day.
Learn more about Tongariro National Park
Rotorua – Geothermal Wonders and Māori Culture
Around a 1hour drive from Taupō, Rotorua offers cultural experiences, geothermal wonders, and family-friendly attractions:
- Te Puia: Explore bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and see traditional Māori carving and weaving.
- Redwoods Treewalk: A series of suspension bridges through towering redwoods, safe and scenic for kids and adults alike.
Waitomo Caves – Glowworm Magic
For a truly magical experience, take the family about two hours from Taupō to Waitomo:
- Glowworm Cave Tours: Gentle walking and boat tours illuminate the caves with thousands of tiny glowworms — an unforgettable sight for all ages.
- Otorohanga Kiwi House: Add a visit to see New Zealand’s iconic kiwi birds up close.
Hobbiton – A Magical Movie Set Adventure
About a two-hour drive from Taupō, Hobbiton Movie Set is a must for families who love The Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit. The guided tour takes you through the rolling hills of the Shire, past hobbit holes, and even to the Green Dragon Inn for a refreshing drink. It’s an enchanting experience for kids and adults alike, and makes for incredible family photos.
Turangi – River Fun and Outdoor Adventures
Only 40 minutes south of Taupō, Turangi is a family-friendly hub for outdoor activities. Nestled by the Tongariro River, it’s a quieter spot that still packs in plenty to do, from trout fishing to the Tongariro River Trail, it is perfect for families of all ages.
How to Make the Most of Your Day Trips
- Start Early: Beat the crowds and make the most of daylight hours.
- Pack Snacks & Layers: Weather can change quickly, especially in the Central Plateau.
- Stay Close to Taupō: Our properties provide the perfect base for your family adventures:
The Manor – Ideal for Families
Spacious 5-bedroom property with spa, sauna, and landscaped gardens.
Amazing Views – Close to Lake & Town
5 bedrooms, outdoor sauna, and spa for relaxing evenings.
Absolute Lakefront – Views, Spa, Pool and Gym
4 bedrooms, panoramic views and spa bath to unwind after a day of exploring with the family
Unbeatable Location – Spa, 50m to lake
8 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, steps from the lake and town.
Taupō offers endless options for memorable family day trips, whether you prefer exploring mountains, geothermal wonders, or magical movie sets. Use it as your base, and create adventures that everyone in the group will remember for years to come.
