Perfect for outdoor lovers, Turangi is a small town located in the heart of New Zealand’s north island. Experience hiking, biking, and fishing all in one place. The town is near the banks of Tongariro River, Lake Taupo, and the Tauranga-Taupo River, all trout havens. There is also the Tongariro National Trout Centre, a hatchery and educational center. It is known as the trout fishing capital of New Zealand, but aside from fishing, Turangi is an angler’s paradise. There are a lot of hiking trails, perfect for mountaineers. Hiking adventures into the Tongariro National Park has shuttles which go straight to the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing. These locations are 40 minutes away from the Whakapapa ski area on Mount Ruapehu and five minutes from Tokaanu’s thermal hot pools. If there are hiking trails, there are also bike trails. Because of easy access and beautiful views, the trail is very popular among beginners and experienced riders. Hiking, biking, and even jet skiing: Turangi has a lot to offer tourists who love outdoor activities. Read on to find out more about the things to do in Turangi, New Zealand.
1. Enjoy a meal at Lakeland House Restaurant
Lakeland House Restaurant is listed as the best restaurant in Turangi. It is located on 88 Waihi Road, Little Waihi, Tokaanu, Turangi 3381, New Zealand. They are vegetarian-friendly and have a lot of vegan and gluten-free options as well. The restaurant is open seven days a week from 10 am to 6 pm. For booking essentials, you can simply call them. Eat great food worth the price at Lakeland House Restaurant.
Lakeland House Restaurant
Address: 88 Waihi Road, Little Waihi, Tokaanu, Turangi 3381, New Zealand
Website: Lakeland House Restaurant
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
2. Enjoy a jet boat ride and whitewater rafting (from USD 158.0)
Let’s get into the waters of Taupo. They have a variety of water activities like the river jet-boat ride and whitewater rafting on the Tongariro River. Included in this package are the professional guides and equipment needed. It is an experience to see the picturesque view of Taupo at a guaranteed low price. They are open from 10 am to 3 pm daily. The departure point is at selected Taupo Hotels. Your Turangi experience will not be complete without this.
Taupo Adventure Combo: Jet Boat Ride and Whitewater Rafting
Duration: 7 hours
3. Have a taste of the famous Turangi pie
New Zealand is also known for its savory pies. The Turangi Bakery and Cafe offers the best Turangi pie in town. You will not regret trying it at Turangi Bakery and Cafe. Aside from pies, they also serve coffee, sandwiches, and cakes. Everything at this bakery tastes great. Experience fresh and good food with great value for your money.
Turangi Bakery and Cafe
Address: 77 Ohuanga Road, Turangi 3334, New Zealand
Website: Turangi Bakery and Cafe
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)
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4. Bike along the Tongariro River Trail
You can either bike or take a walk at this 15-kilometer (9.32-mile) trail. The trail is composed of bridges showing the beautiful view of the river, forests and urban landscapes of New Zealand. If you want to take a shorter trail, you can pass by the Major Jones Bridge. There are several points where to start, but the most popular is from Highway 1.
Tongariro River Trail
Address: Tongariro Bridge, New Zealand
5. Hike along the Tongariro Crossing
For a low price, you can experience a five- to eight-hour (approximate) hike viewing the landscapes of volcanoes and alpine lakes. It is considered as one of the best hikes in New Zealand. The package includes hotel pickup, free photography, walking poles, Maori cultural experience, and a cold drink as a prize when you finish the hike. This is recommended for groups who enjoy a self-guided hike. You can go at your own pace while you enjoy the view.
Tongariro Crossing Return Transfer from Turangi
Duration: 8 hours
6. Witness geothermal activity in Tokaanu
New Zealand is also known for its volcanoes. You can witness and experience actual geothermal activity in one of the best free geothermal parks, Tokaanu Thermal Walk. It is a 20-minute walk that takes you on a tour through hot springs and geothermal features.
Tokaanu Thermal Walk
Address: Mangaroa Street, Tokaanu, Southern Lake Taupō, New Zealand
Website: Tokaanu Thermal Walk
Price: Free
7. Enjoy a stay at Tongariro Lodge (from USD 127)
The Tongariro Lodge is known for its excellent location, rooms, and provided amenities. It includes free parking and free WiFi. Around the area are a restaurant and bar. At their restaurant, you can order one of their best-sellers like roast pork belly, black angus fillet steak, and mount cook salmon. If you want to take a dip, they have a pool and a hot tub. For outdoor activity, they offer a picnic area. You can even avail of babysitting, daily housekeeping, dry cleaning, and laundry.
Tongariro Lodge
Address: 83 Grace Road
Accommodates: 8
Parking Restaurant Meeting/banquet facilities Bar Tennis court Golf course (within 3 km) Garden Non-smoking rooms
8. Experience fishing at the trout fishing capital of the world
Your Turangi experience will not be complete without trying to fish for trout. If you are in need of a guide, Whiskery Mike’s Turangi Trout Connection is the answer. They use a custom build fishing vessel that is guaranteed to be the safest. It can accommodate up to four people.
Whiskery Mike's Turangi Trout Connection
Address: Tongariro River, Turangi, New Zealand
9. Enjoy a scenic drive in National Park Gondola (from USD 128.0)
This Taupo tour will take you from National Park Gondola to Mt. Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. You will see the native New Zealand forest, alpine desert, and active volcanoes. These are landscapes you will never forget. The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, private transportation, lunch, and a gondola pass. There are four stopovers where you can shop and/or drop by.
Taupo Tour - National Park Gondola - Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe
Duration: 6 to 8 hours
10. Have fun skiing on Mt. Ruapehu (from USD 83.0)
New Zealand has about 24 ski fields, Mt. Ruapehu is only one of them. If you are into winter sports, this is a must-try. This ski field is unique because you will experience skiing across an active volcano, definitely something you will not experience in any other place.
One Day Ski and Activity Pass Mt Ruapehu
11. Stay in the cozy Anglers Paradise Motel
This motel is available for two guests. It is a studio type room and is complete with one queen-sized bed or two single beds, a private toilet and a bath which is sparkling clean at all times. They have a great check-in experience and great location as well. They have a policy of no smoking, pets, and parties allowed. There is a slider to a private patio with garden views and access to a pool during the summer months. The unit has free unlimited WiFi and SKY television.
005 - Anglers Paradise Motel (Studio Unit#5)Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Read more reviewsCleanliness:
the room was very clean and the bed was also comfortable
Great activities in Turangi
You can go beyond this list. Turangi, New Zealand, has a lot to offer its visitors. Explore, fish, ski, hike, bike, eat, and relax in Turangi. If you are limited on budget and time, this list can surely help you choose some activities that will suit your vacation.
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