Top Taupo Extreme Sports

Spin and speed your way to Huka Falls during a thrilling jet boat ride on the Waikato River. Hold on tight as you zip over the crystal-clear waters, past rugged cliffs and native bush on New Zealand's longest river. Feel the power of the thundering waterfall up close as it blasts into the turbulent pool.

The Taupō Swing is more than just a giant swing - it's a feet-first, freefalling rush over the mighty Waikato River, offered from the same dramatic cliff-top site as Taupō's iconic Bungy Jump. Swinging out at speeds of up to 70kph, participants soar and swoop through the air over the river, with the choice of a countdown or a surprise release to ramp up the anticipation. It's the North Island's only cliff-face drop of its kind, giving riders all the thrill of freefall as a feet-first alternative to bungy jumping. Choose to swing solo or tandem with a friend, and take in sweeping views over the Waikato River from high above—an unforgettable adventure whether it's a standalone experience or the perfect pairing with a Taupō Bungy Jump.

An iconic Kiwi-born activity, bungy jumping is a must-do, bucket-list experience during any visit to New Zealand. Set on the edge of a dramatic cliff just minutes from Taupō township, the Taupō Bungy experience pairs adrenaline with genuinely stunning scenery in a way few sites can match, with sweeping views over the Waikato River and surrounding native bush framing every leap. At 47 metres high, it's New Zealand's highest water-touch bungy jump platform and the only Bungy in the Central North Island, making it a standout stop for those exploring beyond Queenstown and Rotorua. Choose from solo, tandem, or body harness jumps, with the option to touch or fully immerse yourself in the water below for an extra rush. Whether it's your first jump or your fiftieth, the combination of height, scenery, and choice makes Taupō Bungy an unmissable adventure for thrill-seekers of every kind.

Zoom along the Waikato River on a jet boat during a speedy, thrilling excursion. With a guide in the lead providing commentary on the local sights, surf the Nga Awapurua Rapids, shoot through canyons, and admire the purity of the clear waters. This small-group tour can accommodate 11 people per boat.

Experience the thrill of freefalling from 12,000 feet (3,660 meters) above Lake Taupo on this New Zealand tandem skydiving adventure. Prepare for your flight with pickup in a stretch Hummer, then gear up and gather your courage on the flight up to altitude. After jumping from the plane with a tandem master, enjoy 40 exhilarating seconds of freefall followed by unbeatable views of both coasts and the volcanoes of Tongariro National Park as you glide back to earth by parachute.

Experience the best views of Lake Taupō and Taupō township from 1,000 feet above the water. Enjoy an unforgettable parasailing adventure with breathtaking 360° panoramic views, optional Sky Dips and freefall descents, and take-offs and landings directly from our purpose-built parasail boat. It's the perfect mix of excitement, stunning scenery and unforgettable memories. Whether you're flying solo, tandem or triple, our friendly, experienced local crew will ensure you feel comfortable from start to finish, making this an adventure suitable for both first-time flyers and thrill-seekers. With no experience required and no need to enter the water, it's one of the easiest and most exhilarating ways to experience Taupō. Every flight is tailored to the day's conditions, ensuring a safe, smooth and memorable experience while showcasing one of New Zealand's most iconic landscapes from a truly unique perspective.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike is a fantastic way to see Tongariro National Park, but without you’re own vehicle, it’s pretty tricky to actually reach the crossing from Taupo. Hop aboard this return shuttle and concentrate on taking in the park’s volcanic vistas and vivid green crater lakes, rather than worrying about the travel.

Kick off your adventure with a breathtaking helicopter flight over Lake Taupo, where you'll soar above iconic sights like Huka Falls and the mesmerizing Maori Rock Carvings. After your 12-minute scenic flight, prepare for an exhilarating skydiving experience. From 15,000 feet, plunge into freefall for 60 seconds, taking in stunning views of Mount Ruapehu and the expansive lake below. Once the parachute deploys, enjoy a gentle descent back to earth, filled with adrenaline and memories of an unforgettable day. This combo offers a unique way to explore Taupo's beauty from both the air and the ground.