12 Best Things to Do in Tūrangi

1. Hike the Tongariro Crossing

Let’s be real, if you only do one hike in Turangi, it should be the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Clocking in at 19.4 km (12 mi), this high-adrenaline trek winds through steaming vents, glacial valleys, volcanic craters and those otherworldly Emerald Lakes.

You’ll ascend to Red Crater at 1,886 m before descending, making it New Zealand’s top one-day trek and one of the best in the world.

Just a heads-up: it’s strenuous, with steep climbs and unpredictable alpine weather. Go prepared, as there are a few rescues every year. May-October brings snow and ice, so unless you’re an alpine pro or with a guide, the warmer months are much kinder.

Check out how to do this hike over at Tongariro Crossing Accommodation and Transport: A Practical Guide.

Location: The Ketetahi Car Park for the Tongariro Crossing is 24 km (15 mi) from Turangi. Take State Highway 1 south, then State Highway 46 where the Ketetahi Car Park is signposted.

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2. Check Out the Birthplace of the Haka

Just a short hop from Tūrangi, down SH 47 toward National Park, lies a small turnoff to the historic Opotaka pā site on the edge of Lake Rotoaira.

This unassuming spot is famously celebrated as the birthplace of the “Ka Mate” haka, Te Rauparaha‘s spirited chant that has gone on to become one of the best-known haka in the world.

According to local stories, around 1820, the Ngāti Toa chief Te Rauparaha escaped his enemies by hiding in a kūmara (sweet potato) pit, sheltered by Te Wharerangi and protected by her food cover.

Emerging safely, he gave thanks by performing the haka, marking the origin of “Ka Mate”. An interpretive board at the site shares this fascinating tale, making it a must-see cultural landmark for visitors.

Location: Opotaka Historic Reserve, State Highway 47, 13 km (8 mi) from Tūrangi. Follow State Highway 47 for 9 km (5.5 mi) where Opotaka is signposted.

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3. Check Out the Tongariro National Trout Centre

The Tongariro National Trout Centre is a delightful surprise for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike. This DOC-run freshwater centre is a charming educational hub where you can spy trout without getting wet in the underwater viewing chamber.

The centre boasts an aquarium, hatchery, freshwater museum and fishing library.

Kids (and adults) can feed wild trout, wander through interpretative displays about freshwater conservation and learn about the region’s trout heritage.

For a small extra cost, there’s even bike hire and a kids’ fishing pond. We’re big fans of the centre’s commitment to education and conservation.

Open daily from 10 am to 3 pm, admission is NZ$22 for adults and NZ$12 for children.

Location: State Highway 1, 4 km (2.5 mi) south of Turangi, Waikato, North Island.

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4. Experience Fishing in the Trout Fishing Capital!

They say Turangi is the “Trout Fishing Capital of the World” and for good reason! The Tongariro River is a world-class fishing river where the population of rainbow trout leave the waters of Lake Taupo every year to spawn in.

Whether you want to try fly-fishing in the Tongariro River or join a fishing charter on Lake Taupo, you’ll quickly see why the Turangi locals are “hooked” on trout fishing.

A great place to start with planning your fishing experience is with the local fishing lodges like Tongariro Lodge or hire a fly-fishing guide.

Location: Tongariro River. Look out for fishing access signs along the Tongariro River Trail. You must hold a Taupo District Fishing License to fish in the river. See What You Need to Know About Fishing in New Zealand for more information.

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5. Walk Around Lake Rotopounamu

Escape to the serene Lake Rotopounamu, a hidden gem just a gentle drive from Tūrangi along SH 47.

This tranquil crater lake, framed by lush podocarp forest and backed by Mount Pihanga, offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers. The name Rotopounamu, meaning “greenstone lake” in Māori, is a fitting nod to its peaceful hue.

The 5 km loop track can be ambled in roughly two hours, ideal for those seeking a relaxing escape without the push of a big trek.

As you stroll, keep your eyes peeled for native birds like North Island robin and tomtit.

Find more walks in the area in the 15 Turangi Walks You Can’t Miss.

Location: 12 km (7 mi) from Tūrangi. Find the walk and car park signposted about 8 km (5 mi) along State Highway 47.

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6. Hike or Bike the Tongariro River Trail

Whether you’re on two feet or two wheels, the Tongariro River Trail delivers a scenic 13-15 km (8-9 mi) loop along the famous Tongariro River, just minutes from Tūrangi.

This easy, flat trail (about 2 hours walking, or shorter if biking) is lined with native bush, farmland and glassy trout-filled water that defines the town’s soul.

Swing bridges and river lookouts add sweet punctuation points, with plenty of spots to pause, picnic and even watch fly-fishing pros in action.

Families, beginners and casual riders will find this trail particularly welcoming. Don’t worry if you’re without wheels; local hire and guided options are available, including e-bikes and helmets.

Location: While there are several access points to the trail, the most popular place to start is from the Tongariro River Bridge on State Highway 1.

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7. Go White Water Rafting on the Tongariro River

Yes, another awesome activity on the Tongariro River is white water rafting! Join a trip on the grade 3 stretch of river with more than 50 rapids to tackle.

See a mixture of scenery from deep river gorges to rolling countryside on this rafting trip that’s suitable for all ages.

Alternatively, try the grade 4 trip on the river only available a few times a year.

Book your white water rafting trip with Tongariro River Rafting.

Location: Tongariro River Rafting – 95 Atirau Road, approximately 1.5 km (0.9 mi) from Turangi town centre.

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8. Have a Turangi Pie!

No visit to Tūrangi is complete without sinking your teeth into a local pie. These aren’t your average pastries, they’re a Tūrangi institution. From classic mince and cheese to gourmet options like venison and kumara, the town’s bakeries serve up hearty, flavourful pies that locals swear by.

According to our very own editor-in-chief, Laura, “The Turangi Bakery is a must-visit spot for pie enthusiasts. Their crispy, golden pastry and generous fillings make for a truly satisfying meal.”

Grab one to fuel your adventures or enjoy it lakeside, either way, it’s a taste of Tūrangi you won’t forget.

Location: 77 Ohuanga Road, Tūrangi, Waikato, North Island.

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9. Ski on Mt Ruapehu

Just a 45-minute drive from Tūrangi, Mt Ruapehu stands as the North Island’s premier ski destination. Home to Whakapapa and Tūroa ski fields, it offers a winter playground for all abilities, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging runs for seasoned powder hounds.

The mountain boasts long runs, natural half-pipes and dedicated freestyle parks. With snowmaking facilities ensuring winter fun even in lighter seasons, Mt Ruapehu delivers a reliable ski experience. Ski schools cater to all ages, while rental shops make it easy for visitors without gear.

Off the slopes, panoramic views of Tongariro National Park, including volcanic craters and emerald lakes, reward every lift ride. While summer transforms the area into a hiking paradise, winter reigns supreme for snow sports enthusiasts.

Location: 54 km (34 mi) from Tūrangi. Take State Highway 47 for 37 km (23 mi) then turn toward Whakapapa Village on State Highway 48.

© Ruapehu Alpine Lifts

10. See Geothermal Activity in Tokaanu

Tokaanu offers a fascinating glimpse into New Zealand’s geothermal wonders. The area is dotted with hot springs, mud pools and steaming terraces, showcasing the volcanic forces shaping the Central Plateau.

Visitors can safely explore along boardwalks, marvelling at vibrant mineral deposits and bubbling pools against a stunning lakefront backdrop.

We love the Tokaanu Thermal Walk, a super easy 20-minute loop through native bush featuring several hot springs and colourful geothermal features.

For a relaxing soak after exploring, the Tokaanu Hot Springs provide thermal pools perfect for unwinding.

Birdwatchers will appreciate the opportunity to spot waterfowl around Lake Taupō’s southern edge, while local Māori stories add cultural depth to these dynamic landscapes. It’s an ideal stopover en route to Tongariro National Park, offering a peek into Tūrangi’s captivating geology.

Location: 6 km (4 mi) from Turangi. Take State Highway 41 for 5 km (3 mi) and follow the brown signs for “Hot Pools”. The Tokaanu Thermal Walk starts beside the Tokaanu Hot Pools.

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11. Hike in the Famous Tongariro National Park

While we might have already talked about the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, there’s much more to explore in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Tongariro National Park.

As the gateway to this natural wonder, Tūrangi offers easy access to dozens of trails ranging from gentle forest walks to challenging volcanic climbs.

We’re big fans of the Taranaki Falls Track, which showcases stunning waterfalls and alpine streams.

For panoramic volcanic vistas, we can’t get enough of the Silica Rapids walk. Native birds, tussock landscapes, and vibrant alpine flora keep the scenery varied and photogenic.

Well-marked tracks and DOC-maintained huts make multi-day trips feasible, while interpretation panels provide insight into Māori culture and geological history.

Location: Whakapapa Village, the national park base, is off State Highway 47, 47 km (29 mi) from Tūrangi.

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12. Get Off the Beaten Track in the Kaimanawa Mountains

Swap the busy hiking trails of the Tongariro National Park for the peaceful forests of the Kaimanawa Ranges.

The best entrance to take from Turangi is down Kaimanawa Road where a gravel road leads to a myriad of walking trails.

Enjoy breathtaking views from atop Mt Urchin or Mt Umukarikari, be in awe at The Pillars of Hercules or just embrace the bird sounds and lush greenery on one of the many forest trails.

It’s also a good place to camp for the night with a few free campsites. Many of these walks also feature in our 10 Best Walks Around Lake Taupo.

Location: Kaimanawa Road, 20km (12 miles) from Turangi.

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