Taupō is known for being the scenic playground of the North Island. From jet boats up the thundering Huka Falls to skydiving over the lake, this resort is the perfect location for outdoor enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies. But what happens when it rains? Here are the top wet weather activities available in a town that’s famous for its outdoor landscapes.
1. Mind Junction
Mini golf, optical illusions and a giant maze; who doesn’t love an all-weather activity park?! This puzzle centre is one of the best rainy day activities Taupō offers to families. Spend a couple of hours in the discovery zone where you can transform into a science experiment or work of art. Learn the world’s countries with a giant puzzle map and test your perceptions as you engage with games and optical illusions. Afterwards, marvel at the impressive brick collections in the Lego display or test your skills with a shooting experience or flight simulator. And if the weather does brighten up, you can make the most of it with one of the outdoor activities. Try a round of mini golf or take on the two-metre high maze designed to challenge kids and adults.
2. Lava Glass
Discover a set of unique works of art inspired by the landscapes of New Zealand. This studio, gallery, and sculpture garden offers visitors the chance to learn about the fascinating process of glassblowing before exploring more than 600 works of art in the sculpture garden. From flowers and mushrooms to rainbows and waterfalls, this lush surrounding provides the perfect Instagram opportunity. Use your ticket to get a discount from the onsite shop, then put your feet up with a bite of afternoon tea in the cafe.
3. McDonald’s Aeroplane
Try dining with a difference in a retired Douglas DC-3 plane named the “World’s Coolest McDonalds” in 2013. Initially serving as a passenger then dressing plane, the DC-3 was decommissioned in 1984 and sold to the Taupō Mayor of the time, who intended to use it as an office at the Aeroplane Car Company. But in 1990, Mcdonald’s purchased the location, and the plane became one of their flagship restaurants. Today, the diner seats up to 20 people and allows visitors to view the original cockpit and learn the history of the plane and its pilots. Now that’s a unique way to enjoy a fast food dinner!
4. L’Arte Cafe
Open Wednesday to Sunday, this quirky little cafe on the outskirts of Taupō city centre is the perfect place to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or all-day breakfast. Voted number one cafe in the Central North Island by Lonely Planet, this dreamworld brings art to life as you wander through creative gardens and mosaic fixtures. A constantly evolving art space, this is a cafe you’ll want to revisit for a captivating dining experience.
5. Taupō DeBretts
This spa is the perfect place to relax while the kids let off some steam on the range of water slides and activities available at the complex. Taupō is one of the most active thermal regions in New Zealand, and DeBretts provides natural mineral pools to relieve your muscles and encourage a feeling of serenity. In addition, the warm water playground and hydro slide provide hours of fun to kids of all ages. This could be the perfect rainy day activity in Taupō for the whole family.
6. Wairakei Terraces
Enjoy an adults-only, holistic wellness experience at the Terraces of the Wairakei geothermal valley. Using the natural hot waters of the area, these mineral-rich pools leave your skin feeling silky smooth. Silica helps to reverse the ageing process, while potassium and magnesium encourage healthy muscles and glowing skin. Plus, four different pool temperatures allow you to move and explore to find your sense of tranquillity. While you’re here, you can take a walk around the geothermal terraces, grab a bite to eat at the cafe and enjoy some of the spa treatments. Rain or shine, this is a must-do in Taupō.
7. Huka Honey Hive
Immerse yourself in all things honey at the Huka Honey Hive, where you can experience beehive viewings, interactive displays, and wellness products. This unique location offers free honey, liqueur, and mead tastings, plus gourmet ice creams and beverages in the cafe. And, you’ll get the chance to learn more about the amazing bumblebee through the passionate team here. Enjoy a free day trip and join the mission to save the world, one bumblebee at a time.
8. Taupō Museum and Art Gallery
Among the best rainy day activities, Taupō museum offers an indoor attraction to engage and inspire. There’s plenty to see, from a Kiwiana caravan to a collection of Māori treasures. Art enthusiasts can explore an ever-changing cycle of artwork in the gallery, while children can have some interactive fun in the activity area. And, The Ora, or Garden of Wellbeing, is a unique ‘living display’ permanently available for viewing in the museum.
9. The Edge Indoor Rock Wall
Are you stuck inside but want to get your muscles working? Try the indoor rock wall that’s over 12 metres tall and has a range of graded climbs to challenge all ages and abilities. If it’s your first time, there’s a bouldering section at the bottom for beginners. If you’re a seasoned pro, the area is constantly changing to provide new challenges. Find a new favourite hobby during your search for the best rainy day activity in Taupō.
10. Huka Falls River Cruise
Experience the breathtaking Huka Falls views from the comfort of an indoor seating area aboard the Huka Falls River Cruise. Along with the falls, you can see native bush and birdlife, plus hot water streams and crystal sparkling water. Enjoy complimentary beverages to warm you up on a cold day, and snap some scenic photos.
11. Crafty Trout Brewing Co.
Enjoy a tour of the world’s first fully automated brewing system, and explore a range of beers crafted from volcanic waters. After meeting the brewmaster, take a seat in the cafe, where a beer-matching menu will allow you to choose the perfect meal to complement your preferred beverage. Rainy day in Taupō, sorted.
