A Family Friendly Road Trip From Taupō to Rotorua

Whether you’re coming from Auckland, Wellington or Palmerston North, all you need to do is pick up your Dollar rental car to get on your way to an epic adventure awaiting you. Traverse picture-perfect scenic spots and explore the wonderland of geothermal hotspots as you travel between Taupō and Rotorua on this amazing family friendly road trip. 

Begin Your Adventures in Taupō 

Situated in the heart of the North Island, Taupō is a town packed with adventures the whole family will enjoy. Set against soaring mountains and the shimmering waters of Lake Taupō, the area is perfect to explore. The lake itself is a highlight - the largest freshwater lake in Australasia, its crystal-blue waters formed by a colossal volcanic eruption nearly 27,000 years ago. The best way to explore the lake and its surrounding scenery is via a boat cruise. There are plenty to choose from, from a Maōri Carvings Sailing Tour that will treat you to some of the region’s cultural history, to an Eco Sailing Tour that will cruise you along atop a beautiful, emission-free sail boat.  

For an extra splash of adventure that little ones will enjoy, strap in for a wild ride on the Huka Falls River Cruise. This cruise will take you right up close to the dramatic Huka Falls - a sensational waterfall that tumbles at full-speed into the pulsing aquamarine river as you float along. As Lake Taupō is surrounded by natural geothermal pools, visiting one of these gems in the geothermal crown of jewels is the perfect way to end your stay in town. The Taupō Debretts Hot Springs is the ideal spot for families to relax and play, with both indoor and outdoor hot pools, as well as a children’s interactive warm water playground. There’s even spa treatments for the parents wanting to indulge in a moment of calm before embarking on further adventures. 

Embrace the Warm Side of Nature 

Only a ten minute drive out of Taupō, extend your geothermal adventures at the Wairakei Terraces - a natural thermal spring that has been providing a sanctuary for Māori for hundreds of years. This hotspot of natural wonder and cultural history is not only beautiful to explore, but is also known to hold healing properties for the body and soul. If you and the family would rather be on your feet, Wairakei Terraces is also home to a stunning walkway of epic proportions. Embark on a self-guided or guided one hour walk and discover the geothermal features of this amazing spot. There’s no doubt you’ll remember this gorgeous landscape long after your travels are over. 

Travel Further to the Centre of Geothermal Activity 

Just a further half an hour drive north of the Wairakei Terraces, Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is truly a sight to behold. This theme park of natural wonder is the perfect spot for the whole family to explore, with a spectacular showcase of some of the country's most colourful and unique geothermal elements. Watch as water is lifted from the ground and laps at the edges of the natural pools, coming alive before your very eyes. The highlight of this wonderland is the famous Lady Knox Geyser - a sensational geyser that can reach up to heights of 20 metres, shooting out of the ground and up toward the sky. Remember to pack your camera for this adventure. 

Arrive in Beautiful Rotorua 

Finish your family-friendly road trip in picturesque Rotorua, just half an hour further north. Named after the lake on its shores, Rotorua is a hotspot for geothermal activity. For more natural wonders, visit Te Puia’s Whakarewarewa Valley and marvel at the 30-metre-tall Pohutu Geyser — a spectacular sight you won’t forget. To mix up your adventure, why not take the whole family on a thrilling luge ride through picturesque forests and calming nature on the Skyline Rotorua? This exciting activity is perfect for little ones and big ones alike, and is an incredible way to cap off your adventures in this beautiful part of the heart of New Zealand’s North Island. 

From geothermal wonders to natural playgrounds and scenic routes, this family friendly road trip guide from Taupō to Rotorua provides the perfect itinerary to make the most of this pocket of paradise in your Dollar rental car.