Winter in Taupo is a truly magical time for families, offering a delightful mix of warm geothermal wonders, thrilling indoor adventures, and crisp outdoor beauty. Forget the cold - it's the perfect season for cozy comforts and unforgettable experiences without the peak-season crowds!
Ready to discover your family's next adventure? Here's our ultimate guide to family-friendly fun in Taupo this winter:
1. Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs
This is a winter family favourite for a reason! DeBretts offers various mineral-rich hot pools, both indoor and outdoor options, and exhilarating hydro slides.
Why families love it: Kids go wild for the thrilling hydro slides and dedicated splash zones, while parents can relax in the warm, therapeutic mineral pools. It's an easy way to entertain all ages, no matter the weather, offering hours of fun and ultimate relaxation against the crisp winter air.
Find out more: Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs
2. Craters of the Moon Geothermal Walkway
Explore an otherworldly landscape just a short drive from Taupo town. Wander along safe, well-maintained boardwalks past bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and vibrant colourful soils.
Why families love it: Kids will feel like they've stepped onto another planet! The steam rising into the cool winter air is incredibly atmospheric, making for fascinating for curious minds. It's an easy, engaging walk for all ages with plenty of cool sights and sounds.
Find out more: Craters of the Moon
3. Hot Water Beach (Lake Taupo)
As the name suggests, this is a truly unique and free natural experience right on the lake!
Why families love it: This special spot lets you dig your own hot pool in the sand, fed by natural geothermal springs. It's a fantastic, incredibly scenic "foot spa" or warm paddling spot with amazing views over the lake and mountains - a magical winter treat that kids will be talking about long after! Just remember to bring a spade!
4. Huka Falls & Aratiatia Dam Release
These powerful natural attractions are captivating year-round, offering spectacular views of New Zealand's most visited natural attraction.
Why families love it: The sheer roar and incredible blue-green power of Huka Falls will mesmerise young and old alike - it's an incredible sensory experience. Watching the controlled torrent of water released from the Aratiatia Dam is like a giant magic trick - kids especially love the dramatic surge! Easy, safe viewing platforms make it accessible for even the littlest legs.
5. Huka Prawn Park
A unique and mostly indoor experience where the prawns are literally under your nose!
Why families love it: Kids get to try their hand at catching prawns in warm, geothermally heated ponds - the excitement of seeing what they'll net is unforgettable! Plus, there are prawn feeding stations, pedal boats on the pond (weather permitting), and a cozy riverside restaurant for a warm meal. It's a full package of fun and food.
Find out more: Huka Prawn Park
6. McDonald's Taupo (The Plane McDonald's)
More than just a meal, it's a destination and a true Taupo icon!
Why families love it: Kids will be absolutely thrilled to eat their McDonald's inside a real, decommissioned DC-3 plane! It's a quirky, memorable, and budget-friendly stop that becomes a fun story to tell from your trip. Don't forget to grab a photo!
7. Mind Junction
Perfect for chilly or rainy days when you need indoor entertainment that challenges the mind!
Why families love it: Packed with interactive optical illusions, brain-teasing puzzles, and a fantastic giant maze, Mind Junction guarantees hours of laughter and engagement for the whole family. It's hands-on fun that challenges minds of all ages, perfect for burning off energy indoors.
Find out more: Mind Junction
8. Dropzone at The Landing
Get ready for some serious energy burning in a fun, safe environment!
Why families love it: Dropzone is an indoor trampoline park and adventure centre featuring trampolines, a foam pit, climbing walls, and more. It's the perfect place for kids (and adults who are young at heart!) to bounce, climb, and play freely, especially when it's cold or wet outside, ensuring everyone sleeps well after a day of active fun.
Find out more: Dropzone
9. Swingers Putt Putt Taupo
A fantastic and vibrant mini-golf course designed for laughs and friendly competition!
Why families love it: Swingers offers an engaging putt-putt experience that's great for all ages and skill levels. It's a relaxed, competitive activity that families can enjoy together, with plenty of photo opportunities and guaranteed smiles. A great all-weather option for family bonding.
Find out more: Swingers Putt Putt Taupo
10. Huka Honey Hive
A sweet and surprisingly educational stop that's buzzing with activity!
Why families love it: Kids will be fascinated by seeing the live beehive in action through a glass wall, learning all about honey production, and getting to taste different varieties of delicious honey and mead (for the adults). There are often honey-themed treats and unique gifts, making it an engaging and tasty visit for all ages.
Find out more: Huka Honey Hive
Your Perfect Winter Family Base: Stay at Roam Taupo!
After a day filled with Taupo's geothermal warmth, a relaxing spa experience, exciting indoor adventures, or invigorating winter walks, you'll want a comfortable, inviting place to unwind. Roam Taupo is designed to be your ultimate winter sanctuary and true 'home away from home'!
Our Lakefront and Upper Terrace Units offer cozy heating and stunning lake views, while spacious Family Stays provide ample room, multiple bathrooms, and fully equipped kitchens for groups up to 10. Our central location also makes accessing all these fantastic winter activities a breeze.
Ready for a Magical Taupo Winter Getaway?