The Honeymoon Guide to Taupo

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Romantic Adventure Activities

What does a romantic day in Taupo look like? How about waking up to enjoy a sunrise scenic flight over the majestic Lake Taupo and toward the volcanoes of the Tongariro National Park? The peaks of the volcanoes are the first to see the sun in this area, so see them in stunning red hues with your loved one on a charter flight with Taupo’s Floatplane or Inflight Experiences Taupo.

During the day, team up in a double kayak and test how well you work together in a kayaking excursion. Paddle over the clear waters of New Zealand’s largest lake, with the reward of seeing the 14m (46ft) Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings towering above! Kayaking tours are available with Canoe & Kayak Taupo (on Viator and Tripadvisor) and Taupo Kayaking Adventures (on Viator and Tripadvisor).

Finish off your day with a relaxing sunset cruise with either Sail Barbary (more info on Viator or Tripadvisor) or Taupo Sailing Adventures (on Viator or Tripadvisor), both offering cruises that are irresistibly affordable. Enjoy the views of the sun casting golden hues across the lake as you sip on New Zealand beer or wine with your loved one. Just try to resist doing a Jack and Rose moment at the front of the ship…

Wondering what to do for the rest of the time you’re in Taupo? How about a romantic walk along the riverside, a tandem bungy jump or exploring a geothermal park? Find out more in the 10 Romantic Activities in Taupo for Couples.

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Romantic All-weather Activities

Whatever the weather, the honeymoon can still go strong thanks to these all-weather activities in Taupo. Strengthen the bond by tackling the Tongariro River’s tumultuous rapids on a white water rafting trip. Be transported from Taupo to Turangi where you’ll get geared up with professional guides to tackle the grade three rapids of the Tongariro River. You have two fantastic companies to choose to raft with, offering similar experiences except Tongariro River Rafting provides hot drinks and snack, as well as a stop by some hot pools in winter, on their rafting tour. (Learn more about Tongariro River Rafting on Viator or Tripadvisor.) On the other hand, Rafting New Zealand includes hot drinks and snacks on the river, as well as hot dogs and beer after the trip. (Find out more about Rafting New Zealand on Viator or Tripadvisor.) Yep, that’s all there really is to it.

If you’d rather keep warm and treat the senses on a rainy day, then relax in some of Taupo’s luxurious hot pools. Indulge in the large mineral hot pools of Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort complete with waterfalls and hydrotherapy sections. Enhance the romance further by booking into one of the indoor private pools. Another romantic option is the tiered Wairakei Terraces hot pool complex surrounded by landscaped native plants and boulders, while the walkway to the geothermal terraces themselves are an interesting addition to your visit. If you’re on a budget, you can always head down to the Otumuheke Stream at Spa Park, a free natural hot spring running into the Waikato River – but don’t expect peace and tranquillity at this tourist hotspot. Find out more about Taupo Debretts Spa Resort (on Viator and Tripadvisor).

For more rainy day ideas, check out the 12 Things to Do in Taupo on a Rainy Day.

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Romantic Restaurants

There’s no lack of choice when it comes to romantic eateries in Taupo. If you want to treat your loved one for an extra special occasion, see the fine dining restaurants in The Luxury Guide to Taupo. Other romantic options include The Brantry (45 Rifle Range Road) serving gorgeously-presented plates of contemporary New Zealand cuisine and local wines. The Bistro (17 Tamamutu Street) is another delightful choice offering casual dining with fine dining plates. Indulge in their degustation menu to experience the best of it all.

A trendy wine bar in the town centre, Vine Eatery & Bar (37 Tuwharetoa Street) has a huge selection of wine, craft beer and whisky best enjoyed with their tapas plates.

And if you’re more into an Asian affair, try Incredible India Restaurant and Bar (16 Paora Hapi Street), Malabar Indian Restaurant (40 Tuwharetoa Street) and Thai Delight Restaurant (Suncourt Shopping Centre), all offering great environments and flavours for romantic dining.

For more recommendations, head to The Foodie Guide to Taupo.