Free and Cheap Activities in Taupo
Love the great outdoors? Then you’ll love what the North Island city of Taupo has to offer! With so many pricey adrenaline activities to entice your adventurous side, you’ll want to balance things out with some free things to do in Taupo. Let us help you out with that!
The township and the surrounding area of Taupo is a haven for walkers, hikers and mountain bikers.
See the largest lake in New Zealand running into a narrow river gorge creating dramatic rapids and waterfalls, the geothermal activity also creates natural hot pools to relax in, and so much more fun free things to do in Taupo!
The locals are pretty friendly here by offering free honey tastings but don’t forget to enjoy the simple things in life like fish n’ chips and eating McDonald’s on an aeroplane.
If you just want to skip onto the good stuff, take a look at 10 Taupo Must-Dos.
All right, ready for the best Taupo activities? We do you one better here are some of the best free and cheap things to do in Taupo!
Table of Contents
1. Hike Up Mt Tauhara – FREE
For an epic free adventure in Taupo, conquer the Mt Tauhara hike. This dormant volcano, rising 1,088 m above sea level, rewards you with jaw-dropping panoramas of Lake Taupo, the Volcanic Plateau and even Tongariro National Park on clear days.
The 2.8 km (one-way) trek takes about 2-3 hours return, leading you through steep pastures and forested switchbacks. It’s a local favourite for sunrise shots and soaking up dramatic landscapes.
Come prepared with sturdy boots, water and layers, as summit conditions can get chilly and windy.
The trailhead is just a 10-minute drive from town on Mountain Road off SH-5. Remember to tread respectfully and stick to the path, as Mt Tauhara holds cultural significance for local Māori.
Location: Mountain Road, Tauhara, Taupo, Waikato, North Island. 6 km east of Taupo.
© NZPocketGuide.com2. Visit Huka Falls – FREE
There is nothing like watching more than 220,000 litres of water plummet through the narrow gorge every second. Huka Falls is one of Taupō’s most iconic and jaw-dropping sights, and it’s totally free to visit.
Just 1.6 km (1 mi) north of Taupo, the falls can easily be accessed by bus, car or by taking the Spa Park walk along the Waikato River.
The viewing platforms are super accessible, just a short walk from the car park, so even families or casual strollers can enjoy this spectacular 11 m (36 ft) drop.
Find out more about the walk at 10 Wonderful Walks Around Lake Taupo.
Location: 5.3 km (3.3 mi) from Taupo. Take the Thermal Explorer Highway for approximately 3.4 km (2.1 mi) and turn right onto the Huka Falls Road.
© Don Benny Vergara3. Relax in a Natural Spa Pool at Otumuheke Stream – FREE
Experience a free natural pampering session at Otumuheke Stream, also known as Spa Park Hot Pools. This hidden gem, where warm mineral-rich waters meet the cool Waikato River, has been a cherished spot for locals and Māori ancestors alike.
Recently renovated, it’s now more accessible than ever, with changing rooms, lockers, toilets and even a coffee kiosk for post-soak treats.
The stream has varied temperatures, mixing the hot spring’s warmth with the river’s coolness to find your perfect cosy nook.
According to our travel manager, Robin, it’s best to visit early for more space and serenity. Just a 25-minute walk or quick bike ride from Taupō’s centre, it’s the perfect free activity to add to your itinerary.
Location: Spa Park, Spa Road, Taupō, North Island. About 2 km (1.2 mi) from Taupō town centre.
© NZPocketGuide.com4. Free Honey and Mead Tasting at the Huka Honey Hive – FREE
Near Huka Falls is the Huka Honey Hive, a deliciously sweet diversion just minutes from the famous waterfall. This buzzing little oasis offers free entry and complimentary tastings of artisan New Zealand honeys, meads (honey wine), and liqueurs. You can even indulge in honey ice cream if you fancy a treat!
Beyond flavour sampling, the Hive features live beehive displays and interactive exhibits about bees and honey production.
Gain insights into manuka, propolis, royal jelly and more. It’s a budget-friendly, educational stop that’s rich in both taste and learning. Who knew honey could be such an attraction?
Location: 65 Karetoto Road. Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. About 10 km (6 mi) north of Taupo town centre.
© NZPocketGuide.com5. Go to the Coolest McDonald’s in the World – CHEAP
We feel a little ashamed to get excited about eating at McDonald’s but just look at it it’s a freakin’ aeroplane! Make your way to the McDonald’s on Roberts Street, famously dubbed the world’s coolest McDonald’s, where you can actually eat inside a decommissioned DC-3 airplane!
This vintage 1943 aircraft, complete with original cockpit (behind glass), now serves as a fun seating area with about 10 tables seating up to 20 people.
Oh, and the best part? It’s just your regular McDonald’s prices, deliciously cheap with a side of aviation history.
However, if you really do want to get up in the sky (and fall down again), did you know that Taupo is the cheapest place in New Zealand to do a skydive? Check out Tandem Skydiving (2002) Ltd.
Location: 48 Roberts Street, Taupo
© Don Benny Vergara6. Sit by Lake Taupo and Eat Fish and Chips – CHEAP
Or as the locals say Fush n’ Chups. Discover why Kiwi’s are so fond of this takeaway meal! Nothing says classic Kiwi chill like grabbing fish and chips and plopping down by the shimmering shores of Lake Taupō.
Choose your favourite local fish and chip joint (there are plenty!), pick up some crispy fried goodness, and stroll to the lakefront, whether it’s the marina, a shady park bench, or the sandy edges of Waitahanui or Four Mile Bay.
According to our very own editor-in-chief, Laura, it’s the most Kiwi of all Taupo attractions! Check out some of the cheapest fish and chips deals in our Cheap Eats in Taupo.
© NZPocketGuide.com7. Mingle with the Locals at Market Central Taupō – FREE
Still wondering what to do in Taupo on a budget? Head to Market Central Taupō! Held every Sunday from 9 am to 1 pm at Northcroft Reserve on the lakefront, this lively market is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
With over 50 to 100 stalls, you’ll find everything from handmade crafts and fresh produce to artisan treats and cheeky cocktails. The vibe is effortlessly inviting, with bean bags, picnic tables, and live music adding to the atmosphere.
Families love the casual setting, complete with a rustic travelling farm featuring baby animals and a bouncy castle for the little ones.
We can’t get enough of the quirky stalls offering delights like Korean fried chicken, empanadas, and even pastel-hued eggs. It’s the perfect spot to soak up the local culture and maybe pick up a unique souvenir or two.
Location: Northcroft Reserve, Taupō Lakefront, Taupō, North Island.
© Krystle Rakatau - Destination Great Lake Taupō (www.lovetaupo.com)8. Hang Out at the Taupo Bungy Place – FREE
One of the popular Taupo attractions offers free entertainment all day long! With an awesome view of the Waikato River valley and the entertainment of watching people bungy jump, Taupo Bungy is actually a pretty cool place to take a break.
Just a 5-minute drive from central Taupo, this dramatic clifftop venue boasts a spacious covered deck with built-in seating and panoramic views.
It’s perfect for cheering on daredevils, soaking up the adrenaline-filled atmosphere, or simply enjoying a moment of calm amid the action.
Visitors often linger to chat, watch the jumps, or savour the energy and viewpoint, all without spending a cent!
Location: 202 Spa Road, Taupo, Waikato, North Island. 5-minute drive from central Taupo.
© Felicity Witters - Destination Great Lake Taupō (www.lovetaupo.com)9. Go Biking Around Lake Taupo – FREE/CHEAP
Taupo is a fantastic place to hop on your bike, with well-maintained trails and little mud thanks to the draining pumice soil. Biking around Lake Taupo offers a perfect mix of sightseeing and activity, with routes through forests, along the lakeshore, and beside the Waikato River.
The Great Lake Pathway (Lion’s Walk) is a must-try for families. This paved, all-ages route was crowned New Zealand’s Favourite Urban Ride in 2017.
For a wilder adventure, check out the Rotary Ride, a Grade 2 (intermediate) trail stretching north from Spa Thermal Park, past Huka Falls, and through native bush to Aratiatia Dam.
For more information, take a look at 10 Awesome Bike Trails Around Lake Taupo.
Location: Great Lake Pathway, Taupo, Waikato, North Island. Rotary Ride starts at Spa Thermal Park, County Avenue, Taupo.
© www.lovetaupo.com10. Check Out the Aratiatia Rapids – FREE
Rapids are a big thing in Taupo. For a free and dramatic spectacle, head to the Aratiatia Rapids, where nature flexes its power in full view.
Several times a day, the Aratiatia Dam releases thousands of litres of water down the Waikato River, transforming calm gorges into churning rapids. It’s a sight that will leave you in awe of nature’s raw force.
Release times are 10 am, 12 pm and 2 pm in winter. In summer (October-March), there’s an additional 4 pm release. Lookout platforms are just a short walk from the parking area, perfect for families or anyone craving a front-row seat to this impressive show.
Remember, this is not a place for swimming, the sirens and signage are there for good reason, so safety first!
Location: Aratiatia Rd, Rotokawa – just off State Highway 5. 12 km (7.5 mi) from Taupo.
© NZPocketGuide.com11. Experience the Geothermal Activity of Craters of the Moon – CHEAP
Not only does this geothermal park have a badass name, but it is one of the cheapest geothermal parks in the Taupo and Rotorua area at just a few dollars per person.
For less than NZ$10 for adults and even cheaper for kids, you can explore an otherworldly landscape of steaming craters, hissing vents and bubbling mud pools.
Formed in the 1950s after a spike in geothermal activity, Craters of the Moon offers a 45-minute loop walk on boardwalks and gravel tracks suitable for most ages.
As you wander through this steam-filled valley, you’ll spot native plants thriving in the heated environment and enjoy sweeping views from elevated platforms.
Location: 7 km from Taupo. Signposted off State Highway 5.
© NZPocketGuide.com12. Relax by the Kuratau River – CHEAP
For a tranquil slice of the Taupō District, head to the Kuratau River. This peaceful spot, flowing into the southwestern corner of Lake Taupō, offers a perfect blend of serenity and gentle adventure.
We love its crystal-clear waters, especially inviting during the summer months. Whether you’re up for a leisurely riverside stroll, a spot of kayaking, or some trout fishing, Kuratau delivers a more laid-back Taupō experience.
According to locals, it’s a favourite for picnics on the banks, where you can soak in the scenery at your own pace. As we’ve found, it’s an ideal place to slow down and immerse yourself in nature, away from the busier tourist spots.
Location: Kuratau River, Kuratau
© Destination Great Lake Taupō (www.lovetaupo.com)13. Fishing on Tongariro River – CHEAP
The Tongariro River isn’t just one of New Zealand’s most famous trout-fishing spots, it’s a pilgrimage destination for anglers worldwide.
Located in nearby Turangi, about a 45-minute drive south of Taupō, the river is renowned for its powerful runs of rainbow and brown trout, particularly during winter spawning season.
You’ll need a Taupō District fishing licence, but day permits are affordable, making it a budget-friendly way to experience world-class freshwater fishing.
The river is divided into named pools and runs, like Major Jones, the Bridge Pool, and the famous Hydro Pool—each offering a unique challenge.
Even if you’re not fishing, walking the Tongariro River Trail gives you gorgeous views of turquoise water, swing bridges, and forested banks.
Location: Tongariro River, Turangi, Waikato Region, North Island. 50 km (31 mi) south of Taupō.
© Jason Bethune - Destination Great Lake Taupō (www.lovetaupo.com)14. Explore Kinloch Marina – FREE/CHEAP
Just a 20-minute drive from Taupō, Kinloch Marina offers a peaceful escape on the northern shore of Lake Taupō.
This sheltered bay is the heart of Kinloch, a charming lakeside village where fishing boats, yachts and kayaks bob gently against a backdrop of bush-covered hills.
We love strolling along the boardwalks, watching the comings and goings of boats, and enjoying a coffee from a local café on the grassy foreshore.
The sheltered beach is perfect for a refreshing swim on sunny days. For the more adventurous, Kinloch Marina is also a launching point for the Great Lake Trail, a world-class biking and hiking route that follows the lake’s western bays.
Whether you’re here for boating, cycling, fishing, or simply soaking in the tranquil lakeside atmosphere, Kinloch Marina delivers that easygoing vibe, and it won’t cost you a thing unless you hire gear or book a trip.
Location: Kinloch Marina, Kinloch, Taupō, North Island. 20 km (12 mi) northwest of Taupō town centre.
© Jason Bethune - Destination Great Lake Taupō (www.lovetaupo.com)15. Go Camping – FREE
Wrapping up our list of things to do in Taupo on a budget is mother nature herself! Taupo is an extremely camper-friendly location with some great free places to spend the night.
Stretch your budget and your time in Taupo by pitching a tent and enjoying a night under the stars.
Around the Taupo region, you’ll find several free Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites and lakeside reserves perfect for self-contained vehicles or basic tent setups.
Popular free spots include Five Mile Bay for lake views and Whakaipo Bay for peace and seclusion. Facilities are basic, often just toilets and water access, so come prepared.
For more information, see Where to Camp in Taupo and 5 Free Camping Spots in Taupo.
© PexelsNow That You Have Seen All the Free Things to Do in Taupo …
… Take a look at more Taupo goodness:
That’s it for our list of cheap and free things to do in Taupo. Find more free stuff in the 50 Best Free Things to Do in New Zealand.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Adventure Mark (Health and Safety Audit - Updated [2025])
- Work Safe NZ (Adventure Activities Guidelines - Updated [2025])
- Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2025])
- AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2025])
- NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2025])
- Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2025])
- Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])
- Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])
Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
