{"id":3764,"date":"2017-08-25T15:00:47","date_gmt":"2017-08-25T19:00:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/?p=3764"},"modified":"2019-11-13T11:13:09","modified_gmt":"2019-11-13T16:13:09","slug":"mountain-high-to-deep-waterways-lake-taupo-new-zealand","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/mountain-high-to-deep-waterways-lake-taupo-new-zealand\/","title":{"rendered":"Mountain High to Deep Waterways \u2013 Lake Taupo New Zealand"},"content":{"rendered":"

Lake Taupo & Around<\/h1>\n

\"Tongariro<\/a>If you love the outdoors, beautiful scenery, mountains, waterways, history and culture, look no further than the Lake Taupo Area on New Zealand’s North Island. It brims with outdoor activities, from relaxing to adrenaline pumping, surrounded by natural beauty. From New Zealand\u2019s largest lake to the steaming peaks at Tongariro National Park, the area is a feast for the eyes. Over a million people a year visit this area.<\/p>\n

\"Thermal<\/a>Lake Taupo is a diverse area with star attractions, most from its geothermal activity. Spend time learning about the volcanic activity that began over 300,000 years ago and is still active today. The volcanic activity creates fascinating topography and fantastic thermal hot spots. Play in the water, or spend time learning about the local indigenous culture and history of the Maori people.<\/p>\n

No matter what level of exertion or learning, there are plenty of activities for all ages and physical abilities. You can have a great time either being active or relaxing at very little cost. Try any of the activities your budget allows. Take a look at some\u2026<\/p>\n

Huka Falls<\/h2>\n

\"Huka<\/a>Huka Falls is New Zealand\u2019s highest volume waterfall on the Waikato River, New Zealand\u2019s longest river. Waikato River originates from Lake Taupo and crashes through Huka Falls and the Aratiatia Rapids, then becomes calm as it wanders on to the west coast out to the Tasman Sea. It is north of Lake Taupo on the east side of the lake.<\/p>\n

At Huka Falls, watch from above, take a jet boat to rocket up the Waikato and into the Falls, or take a serene informative boat ride to the Falls. Learn about the history of the area, the wildlife, stop to see wildlife both in and out of the water.<\/p>\n

\"Huka <\/a> <\/div>
\"Waikato <\/a> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Huka <\/a> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Huka <\/a> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Huka <\/a> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>\n

\"Huka<\/a>Rather than a speedy jet boat tossing around as it travels to the Falls, we chose a tranquil boat ride with Huka Falls River Cruise.<\/a>\u00a0We prefer to glide along the river to see the birdlife, the bush, and fish – mostly trout, which are visible in the crystal clear water. Huka Falls River Cruise boat has indoor and outdoor viewing platforms, offering protection from the weather, a place to take great photos, and get closer to the water. Dave the owner, our captain and tour guide, has been giving tours here for 20 years and guided over 12,000 trips. He generously shares his wealth of knowledge about the river, its animal life, the bush, and all the other activities around Lake Taupo. People were able to get advice on activities that suited their interests from Dave. Passengers also have a chance to drive the boat.<\/p>\n

\"Black<\/a>Dave talked to us about the native birds on the river, the New Zealand black duck, or diving sculp duck, and birds that migrated from Australia, like the Coot, Pied Shags, Black Swans. He regaled us with stories about the very clean blue river, the flora, the rainbow and brown trout. Apparently, this area was once considered the best trout fishing in the world. Dave also educated us on the first hydroelectric power station in the area, which the boat passes on this trip.<\/p>\n

The most exciting part of the trip is experiencing the Falls flowing at the boat. It is fun to be in the outside seating as Dave zips the boat through the Falls. Huka Falls River Cruise is the best combination to learn about the area, the river, wildlife, and zipping through the falls, with most of the boat ride being calm, allowing for better photography.<\/p>\n

Huka Falls River Cruise, our morning activity, was timed perfectly ending just before the Aratiatia Dam gate opening. We had the thrill of watching the fierce rushing water as it burst from the dam, temporarily restoring the rapids to their normal operation.<\/p>\n

While we were invited guests by Huka Falls River Cruise, this is a totally independent and honest review based on our experience.<\/em><\/p>\n

Water sports at Lake Taupo and Waikato River<\/h2>\n

Water sports are the highlight of the Lake Taupo area. In addition to the boating and fishing options, there are great swimming spots at:<\/p>\n