3 Best Sights in Taupo, East Coast and the Volcanic Zone

The Waikato River is dammed along its length; the first construction is the Aratiatia Dam, 10 km (6 miles) northeast of Taupō. The river below it is virtually dry most of the time, but three times a day (at 10, noon, and 2), and four times a day in summer (October–March, also at 4), the dam gates are opened and the gorge is dramatically transformed into a raging torrent. Watch the spectacle from the road bridge over the river or from one of two lookout points a 15-minute walk downriver through the bush. To access the dam from Taupō, turn right off Highway 5.

The Waikato River thunders through a narrow chasm and over a 35-foot rock ledge at Huka Falls. The fast-flowing river produces almost 50% of the North Island's required power, and its force is extraordinary, with the falls dropping into a seething, milky-white pool 200 feet across. The view from the footbridge is superb; for an even more impressive look, both the Maid of the Falls and vessels operated by Hukafalls Jet get close to the maelstrom. The falls are 3 km (2 miles) north of town; to reach them, turn right off Highway 1 onto Huka Falls Road.

If you fancy a soak in a hot pool then follow the marked path from the car park beside t to the thermally heated Otumuheke Stream where its mineral water meets the Waikato River. You will see locals soaking under the waterfalls and natural rock pools so feel free to join them. If you are not in a soaking mood continue on the trail to see views of the river as it heads down to the thundering Huka Falls.