Turangi guide, things to see, highlights

1. TURANGI VISITOR CENTER

The visitor centre has its own mini earthquake experience. Plus helpful staff to give you tips where to go and what to do around Turangi. The visitor centre situated at the southern end of Lake Taupo (Turangi town centre) is a gateway to the Tongariro National Park, Tongariro Alpine Crossing as well as ticket agent for the impulsive white water rafting half day tour you want to join. Look for the corrugated volcanic cone surrounding the entrance way and you’ve found the right spot.

2. NATIONAL TROUT CENTRE

National Trout Centre is out of town, a mere 3km down State Highway 1 and is a must do for families, fly fishing fans or visitors who relish the outdoors. The location is the Tongariro River, native bush juxtaposed with hydrangea bushes and trout swirling in the eddies of the streams. Trout are shimmering, bright glorious looking pin up fish whose glamour makes the Centre feel alive. Check our dedicated article to the National Trout Centre for details.

3. TURANGI WALKS AND HIKES

Turangi is home to tremendous walks and hikes from easy family strolls to multiple day tramps. Turangi is framed by Kaimanawa Forest Park and Tongariro National Park on the other side. Remember to check walks in the parks from the wheelchair accessible Tokaanu geothermal walk to hikes up to the summit of Mt Urchin to savour the views of Lake Taupo nestled in its forest setting.

4. TURANGI WATER SPORTS

Water sports and the Tongariro River

Rafting, kayaking or jet boating the river offers visitors adventure water sport entertainment. Jet boating or rafting the river is one of the more popular tour attractions. Its exhilarating and immediate with a rush of pleasure as you navigate a fast flowing river. Turangi River Rafting even takes guests to the local hot pools to get toasty warm in winter. You will paddle through the heart of the Great Lake Taupo region, enjoying stunning scenery you can only access by water. Towering pine forests, native bush and volcanic cliffs surround you on your epic Tongariro River journey. Email info@trr.co.nz for further information.

5. TONGARIRO RIVER DELTA KAYAKING

Kayaking the delta area of the Tongariro River as it enters the vast expanse of Lake Taupo. The channels, swampy area and rich birdlife make this a magical place for kayaking. It is likely you will encounter dedicated fishing buffs spending a day on the lake. Look out for the black-billed gulls, easily identified by their long, thin black beaks. This gull is only found in New Zealand is an inland gull, nesting largely on braided river beds in the South Island. A small percentage has made the Turangi area home.

6. TONGARIRO RIVER FLY FISHING

The Tongariro delta is a prime spot for fly fishing. Catch fish as they prepare to enter the river to spawn. For the special fishing spot a local guide or your accommodation provider will give you tips. The delta is only accessible by boat with the nearest boat ramp at the Tokaanu Wharf. The well maintained concrete ramp is close to the Tokaanu Marina. Visitors will require the appropriate fish licences and permission to use the boat ramp. A ramp permit is needed to use the Department of Internal Affairs’ ramp facilities. Permits are available from most local dairies or service stations.

7. WINTER SKI & SNOWBOARD FROM TURANGI

Let’s get you on the slopes with the reasonably priced accommodation options in Turangi. The town is 45 minutes away from the largest winter sports fields on the slopes of Mt Ruapehu. Whakapapa is a vetern of winter holidays with gondolas, chairlifts, cafes and equipment rental. You really don’t need to even ski or snowboard, visit the highest cafe in New Zealand and people watch. Need some assistance getting it together just give us a call.