Lake Taupo & Huka Falls

Lake Taupo is New Zealand's largest lake — and what a lake it is: 616 square kilometers of surface area (larger than Singapore!) in a caldera created by one of the most massive volcanic eruptions in human history. The Oruanui eruption 26,500 years ago was one of the largest eruptions of the last million years — the ash even reached China. The last major eruption (186 AD) reportedly turned the sky red worldwide according to Roman and Chinese chronicles. Today, the crystal-clear lake is a paradise for water sports.

★★★ Huka Falls

The Huka Falls — just 5 km north of Taupo — are New Zealand's most visited natural wonder. The Waikato River (New Zealand's longest river) squeezes from a 100-meter-wide riverbed through a mere 15-meter-wide gorge and plunges 11 meters down. The volume of water is immense: 220,000 liters per second thunder over the edge — enough to fill an Olympic swimming pool in 11 seconds. The color of the water is an unreal turquoise-blue, based on the mix of pure spring water and captured light.

The Huka Falls Walkway (1 hour, 4 km, flat and paved) runs along the river from Spa Road to the viewing platform directly above the falls. The path is breathtaking — you see the calm river water transform into a roaring monster pressing into the narrow gorge. The platform offers the best view directly into the foaming spray. Free and one of the best free experiences in New Zealand.

★★ Māori Rock Carvings

In Mine Bay on the western shore of the lake are 14-meter-high carvings in the rock — created in the 1970s by Māori artist Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell as a tribute to the Ngāti Tūwharetoa. The carvings depict the ancestor Ngātoro-i-rangi, who discovered the region for the Māori. Accessible only by boat or kayak. The kayak tour (from 55 NZD, 3 hours with Sail Barbary or Canoe & Kayak Taupo) leads along the cliffs through caves and rock arches to the carvings — impressive and unforgettable. Guided boat tours from 45 NZD (1.5 hours).

★★ Adrenaline in Taupo

Skydive Taupo offers tandem jumps from 4,500 meters (12,000 feet, from 299 NZD) or even 5,500 meters (15,000 feet, from 399 NZD) — with views of three active volcanoes (Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, Tongariro), the entire Lake Taupo, and on clear days, the east coast. The free fall lasts up to 60 seconds. Taupo is one of the most popular skydive locations in the world — the landscape makes the difference. Photos and video from 149 NZD extra.

The Huka Falls Jet (Hukafalls Jet, from 119 NZD, 30 minutes) shoots at 80 km/h over the Waikato River right to the base of the Huka Falls — 360° spins, splashes, and the spray of the falls in your face. The Taupo Bungy (47 m above the Waikato River, from 180 NZD) offers the option to touch the water during the jump — choose "Water Touch" when booking.

Trout Fishing

Lake Taupo and its tributaries are home to huge rainbow and brown trout — introduced in the 19th century, they thrive here. Fish over 5 kilos are not uncommon. Guided Fishing Trips (from 250 NZD for a half-day, including equipment and license) take you to the best spots. The small town of Turangi on the southern shore offers a fishing village vibe — the self-proclaimed "Trout Capital of the World."