Exploring Lake Taupō on a Budget: Kid-Friendly Scenic Stops and Picnic Areas

Explore the many picnic areas around Lake Taupō for your family getaway. From the powerful Huka Falls to the bubbling mud pools of Orakei Korako, this handy Thrifty guide will give you the keys to the best and most budget-friendly spots. 

When it comes to a destination that meets the tricky balance for both yourselves and the kids, Lake Taupō is the way to go. You’ll find this lovely lake right in the middle of the North Island/Te Ika-a-Māui, and it’ll reward you with endless opportunities for a jaw-dropping view or a tummy-filling picnic. The question is, where do you find those places, and how can it all be done without breaking the bank? Well, luckily you’ve stumbled across this handy guide that’ll uncover all the best spots to add to your list. Let’s get into it! 

Watch in Awe at Huka Falls

Huka Falls is a must-see when you’re in the Taupō area. Around a five minute drive from Taupō, you’ll come face-to-face with 220,000 liters of water per second gushing from this incredible waterfall. Take the easy Lookout Walk and take in the view—it won’t cost you a dollar, but it might change your life! 

Cast a Line at Tongariro National Trout Centre

Whether you’re a fisherman or nature-lover, the Tongariro National Trout Centre will send you on a deep-dive into the area’s freshwater marine life—and even let you catch some! The centre’s Fishing Package will give your kids an exclusive fly fishing experience under the guidance of a pro angler, complete with all the right rods and gear. And, once your kids have reeled in some trout, the centre will fillet and smoke them, ready to take home for lunch or dinner! Also, check out the aquarium where Giant Kokopu, Koura, Tuna and Koaro swim about, or the original hatchery building where sustainable trout has been farmed since the 1920s. At the children’s fishing pond, your kids can learn how to fly fish and catch a Rainbow Trout the easy way. The Trout Centre also has a picnic spot by the river, where you can sit and reflect on your recent discovery and/or catch. This experience comes at a small entry cost, but it’s so worth it. 

Take in the View at Kinloch 

Take a 20 minute drive from the Taupō township to this small village and you’ll get a big surprise. The view of Lake Taupō and the mountains of Tongariro National Park will make you want to put on the brakes and roll out the picnic blanket the moment you see it. After lunch, you’ll want to head straight to the waters that surround Kinloch, which are great for fly-fishing, a paddle or (depending on how much you want to splash out) a chartered boat ride. 

Marvel at Nature at Orakei Korako Cave & Thermal Park

Orakei Korako, also known as 'The Place of Adorning' in Māori and ‘the best thermal area left in New Zealand’ by Lonely Planet, is one thrilling sight to pack into your picnic. It’s a 25 minute drive from Taupō, and after that you’ll need to jump on a ferry.  Once you’ve arrived, take a walk through the park’s bubbling mud pools, silica terraces and steaming geysers. From there, head straight for the picnic area for some thermal activity to complement your snacks. If you can get past the entry fee, you’re sure to reap the rewards! 

Take a Stroll at Rangatira Point Track

For yet another view that’ll take your breath away, not your dollars, take a 13 minute drive to Rangatira Point Track. Our advice? Park in the first car park and head straight for Whakamoenga Point, which should only be a 30 minute walk. Along the way, you’ll be in the company of flat volcanic rocks, Lake Taupō and mountains of the Tongariro National Park, plus plenty of great spots for fly-fishing and, yes, picnicking.  

Lake Taupō, the Thrifty Way

Around Lake Taupō, you’ll have no shortage of places to stop for a snack, a swim, a view—without burning through your bank account. All you have to do is choose your destination, or just take an unplanned drive and be guided by its beauty. You really can’t go wrong! And when it comes to finding the right rental car, at the right price, you can’t go wrong with Thrifty either. We’ve got a great range of reliable rides to suit a range of budgets, ready to take you deep into Lake Taupō.