Tūrangi
Fishing
Tongariro
Walking & Hiking
Taupō-nui-a-Tia
Golfing
Tokaanu Thermal Area And Hot Pools
Located only five minutes from Parklands Motorlodge, natural thermal pools of the small Maori village of Tokaanu guarantee blissful post-skiing or post-fishing relaxation.
Tūrangi
Located only five minutes from Parklands Motorlodge, natural thermal pools of the small Maori village of Tokaanu guarantee blissful post-skiing or post-fishing relaxation.
Tūrangi have more than 80 wilderness walks within one hour of Parklands. You can choose from Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Tongariro River Walks, Round Lake Rotopounamu, Taranaki Falls and more.
Tongariro River Rafting has a modern, well-equipped fleet of mountain bikes and access to some of the best beginner to advanced riding tracks in the central North Island
Bordered by the Tongariro River, a wild rainbow trout fishery without peer, the town of Tūrangi is heralded as “the trout fishing capital of the world”. Many visitors to Parklands Motorlodge take the opportunity to fish the river or the large lake it feeds, Lake Taupō. Whether you're an experienced trout fisherman or a novice wanting to try the sport for the first time, it can be a great idea to take a fly fishing guide with you. Our local fly fishing guides know all the best spots, can advise you on the right tackle to use, how to improve your technique, and can arrange all transport if needed.
The Tongariro National Trout Centre is a ‘must’ tourist destination. Walk the banks of the world famous Tongariro River. Visit the Trout Hatchery with its own museum and fresh water aquarium. . Have a picnic by the pond and feed the trout See wild trout in the streams and at the underwater viewing chamber. Learn about conservation and our native fish and maybe see a Kereru, Tui or a Whio on the Tongariro River
The Tongariro River’s grade 3 rapids are perfect for first-time rafters: thrills and spills galore without any extreme drops requiring experience. Our awesome highly trained guides are experts at calming any first-time nerves. They’ll keep you entertained and tell you all about the sensational scenery and wildlife you’ll see while you’re floating along. The water on the Tongariro is crystal clear – keep an eye out for the huge rainbow and brown trout swimming around or slide over the side of the raft in one of the many pools and have a swim with them. Whitewater and Family trips departing daily. Book your next rafting adventure by calling 0800 10 10 24
Our Native Bush, River and Forest treks are one of a kind. You will get to experience spectacular Scenes and Locations with fantastic Lake and Mountain views, River crossings, an array of different forest settings and possible sightings of the Waimarino Wild Horses. Over 10 different horse riding options to choose from to suit your skill level. Call 022-167-2112 to book.
Tūrangi Climbing Gym is fun for the whole family and experience levels! With top ropes, lead climbing and bouldering problems which are always changing, you can spend plenty of time here, and know each time you come there will be a new challenge. Located in the Tūrangi town centre; 22 Ngawaka Place
Mini Golf is a fun way to spend a couple of hours. This is quite a challenging 18 hole course based on the terrain of the Central Plateau! Volcanoes, canyons, rivers - all have to be overcome before you reach the last hole. Located in the Tūrangi town centre next to New World.
Fishing
Bordered by the Tongariro River, a wild rainbow trout fishery without peer, the town of Tūrangi is heralded as “the trout fishing capital of the world”. Many visitors to Parklands Motorlodge take the opportunity to fish the river or the large lake it feeds, Lake Taupō. Whether you're an experienced trout fisherman or a novice wanting to try the sport for the first time, it can be a great idea to take a fly fishing guide with you. Our local fly fishing guides know all the best spots, can advise you on the right tackle to use, how to improve your technique, and can arrange all transport if needed.
Bryce Curle has turned his lifelong passion into an occupation and has been a full-time fly fishing guide since 1998. At Bryce Curle Fly Fishing, you can choose the adventure that suits you best. Arrive at your fishing spots by air conditioned 4×4 vehicle, or the ultimate experience Helicopter, fish for a single day or choose to camp out for multiple day stays. You can get away from the crowds and cast to wild rainbow and brown trout. The whole time experiencing the breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife New Zealand has to offer. Get in touch with Bryce by phone or email +64 27 204 9401 bcurle@xtra.co.nz.
Sporting Life - Tūrangi has been owner operated since opening it's doors in the Township of Tūrangi in 1968. They are the stockists of fishing tackle, specialising in the local lakes and rivers of the Central Plateau to the backcountry and wilderness rivers, lakes and oceans in New Zealand and around the world. Sporting Life Tūrangi is about kitting you out for all aspects of fly fishing, this means everything, from your rod, reel and line, through to everything you need to be lost in the wilderness somewhere for days on end. The Sporting Life shop is located in the Tūrangi mall.
The Creel Tackle House has been supplying Tongariro River Anglers with Tackle for around 80 years. The new owner Jason Bethune has a passion and reputation for the art of fly fishing; he has his own line of flies that you can purchase at the tackle shop. He also has a great passion for the backcountry and all it has to offer. There are simply no other tackle shops in New Zealand which enjoy such a rich history as the Creel Tackle House. Creel Tackle House is located around the corner from Parklands Motor Lodge at 189 Taupahi Road.
During the winter months huge numbers of large trout enter all the rivers and make their way upstream to spawn. This is the premier fishing time for the region as trout that enter the rivers are in prime condition. July to September are traditionally the best months for spawning runs and are usually the busiest months with the most anglers on the waters. In recent years October has been very good too as spawning runs become more spread out.
Fly fishing the eastern tributaries such as the; Tongariro, Tauranga-Taupo, and Waitahanui, mostly for rainbow trout, provides the fishing challenge.
Tongariro
Home to three active volcanic mountains, and iconic and majestic landscapes, Tongariro National Park has attracted adventurers of all ages since 1887. With wide-open spaces, some of the best hikes in the world and must-see natural wonders, Tongariro National Park is the perfect destination for families, couples and explorers seeking adventure, fun and an escape into nature. The villages of National Park, Whakapapa, Raurimu and Erua lie at the heart of this volcanic wonderland.
On Mt Ruapehu, we operate two ski areas, Whakapapa and Tūroa. With terrain formed by solidified lava, the ski fields lend themselves perfectly to natural bowls, wind lips and half pipes, with a vast number of cliffs and drop offs. This makes skiing and boarding on Mt Ruapehu, some of the most exhilarating the Southern Hemisphere has to offer. Home of the Sky Waka gondola, New Zealand’s premier gondola experience, in both summer and winter guests are transported 1.8km up and through the North Island’s most rugged and spectacular landscape, to an altitude of 2020m above sea level. Mt Ruapehu is a short drive from Tūrangi
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a part of New Zealand’s oldest national park and is a dual heritage site, it is often referred to as one of the best day hikes in the world. At roughly 20 kilometres the trek will have you climbing steep volcanic mountains and exposed ridgelines, whilst enjoying some of the most spectacular, awe-inspiring scenery New Zealand had to offer. This trek isn’t for the faint of heart, the trek winds over three volcanic peaks (Ngauruhoe, Tongariro and Ruapehu) and takes between 5 and 8 hours to complete. However, the sites you will see and the rewarding feeling of finishing this trek will make it well worth the effort.
One of Tongariro National Park’s best short walks, this easy loop is jam-packed with fascinating natural sights including Taranaki Falls themselves which tumble 20 metres into a boulder-ringed pool. The track is in two parts – an upper and lower – which form a loop with the falls around the halfway mark. The lower track passes through tussock, alpine shrublands, and beech forest where you may see cute native birds. After a while, it meets the pretty Wairere Stream and climbs past Cascade Falls before Taranaki Falls come into view. The falls tumble over an ancient lava flow formed by the Ruapehu eruption of 15,000 years ago. Begins 100 metres below Whakapapa Visitor Centre at Ngauruhoe Place.
Experience the thrill of Quad biking on wide open spaces as you venture through some of New Zealand's most stunning scenery. Over looking the world famous Tongariro National Park . You will experience the freedom of fresh air with guided Quad bike tours over hills, through water and forest on top quality, well-maintained Quad bikes. We provide all the riding safety gear you need to have a truly exhilarating off-road experience. Free-Phone: 0800 RU RIDE (0800 787 433) to enquire
Experience breathtaking views and explore unique landscapes while in the company of our summer & winter based alpine & river qualified guides. Offering Private Guide & Group Guided Tours, We have Full day hiking on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and offer a Half - Day Tongariro Highlights scenic option. Based in the Tongariro National Park Village; We are Locally owned and operated & love NZ Outdoors. Call 027 242 7209 or 0800 386 925 to enquire
Walking & Hiking
Tūrangi have more than 80 wilderness walks within one hour of Parklands. You can choose from Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Tongariro River Walks, Round Lake Rotopounamu, Taranaki Falls and more.
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a part of New Zealand’s oldest national park and is a dual heritage site, it is often referred to as one of the best day hikes in the world. At roughly 20 kilometres the trek will have you climbing steep volcanic mountains and exposed ridgelines, whilst enjoying some of the most spectacular, awe-inspiring scenery New Zealand had to offer. This trek isn’t for the faint of heart, the trek winds over three volcanic peaks (Ngauruhoe, Tongariro and Ruapehu) and takes between 5 and 8 hours to complete. However, the sites you will see and the rewarding feeling of finishing this trek will make it well worth the effort.
One of Tongariro National Park’s best short walks, this easy loop is jam-packed with fascinating natural sights including Taranaki Falls themselves which tumble 20 metres into a boulder-ringed pool. The track is in two parts – an upper and lower – which form a loop with the falls around the halfway mark. The lower track passes through tussock, alpine shrublands, and beech forest where you may see cute native birds. After a while, it meets the pretty Wairere Stream and climbs past Cascade Falls before Taranaki Falls come into view. The falls tumble over an ancient lava flow formed by the Ruapehu eruption of 15,000 years ago. Begins 100 metres below Whakapapa Visitor Centre at Ngauruhoe Place.
Nestled on the side of Mt Pihanga, Lake Rotopounamu (‘greenstone lake’) is a special favourite of tree lovers and birdwatchers. The track begins with an uphill walk then flattens out to circle the lake. There are numerous picnic and rest spots, with toilet facilities available on the main beach area. The lake is suitable for swimming in. This beautiful lake and forest is part of the Tongariro National Park. Physical address: Te Ponanga Saddle Road, Tongariro National Park. This is a 5KM loop and is 2 hours.
The Tongariro River Trail can be enjoyed in any direction, and started at a number of different points. This means shorter routes can be tailored to suit your particular needs. You can access the trail at Taupahi Reserve - just around the corner from Parklands Motor Lodge. The Tongariro National Trout Centre is also on route, which is a destination in itself. Take a walk along the river’s edge, learn about the fishery, or visit the whio creche and freshwater aquarium.
This grade 2-3 loop trail is perfect for the whole family. Highlights include river views, the impressive Aratiatia Dam release, stunning native bush and a hidden geothermal stream. From Huka Falls you can walk or ride to the Aratiatia Dam and return via the same track, or loop back on the other side of the river via Aratiatia Loop track, Wairakei Resort Track, Wairakei Tourist Track and Café Track. The track is around 14km return or 7km one-way. In the summer months (October to March) the flood gates on the Aratiatia Dam open every two hours between 10am and 4pm for around 15 minutes creating a spectacular flow of water through a narrow gorge.
Taupō-nui-a-Tia
Slightseeing at its best! Discover NZ’s most scenic & spectacular vistas. Enjoy a unique flightseeing experience over Tongariro National Park, the Bay of Plenty and, of course, Great Lake Taupō ! Scenic flights by seaplane are a magical way of gaining a true perspective of one of NZ’s most scenic regions. Call +64 7 378 7500 to book!
Two awesome activities located at one stunning site. At 47m, this is NZ’s highest water touch bungy platform. The extreme swing is a feet-first mind-blowing rush, reaching speeds of 70 kp/h. Solos and tandems available. https://www.bungy.co.nz/
Chris Jolly Outdoors has been looking after you for 40 years, and with that in mind your safety and wellbeing, along with that of our staff, are foremost in our mind. Cruise Cat is the largest boat in the Taupo harbour, which gives you the space you need to travel with peace of mind. Journey to the Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings in comfort and style with a stunning tour of the Lake Taupō bays. Call 0800 252 628 to book
Operating for over 25 years, we’re the original tandem dropzone in NZ – we’ve thrown over 200,000 crazy people out of our planes! Skydiving in Taupō is truly an unforgettable experience – you’ll see volcanoes, coast-to-coast views of the North Island and the incredible shores of Lake Taupō . Our tandem masters are highly trained and experienced. Our crew is what makes TTS one of the best choices to go skydiving in New Zealand. Call 07 377 0428 to book
At Wairakei Terraces, our pools draw their healing properties from silica terraces and geothermal water flow from 1.5 kilometres underground delivering an unbeatable combination of geothermal and mineral water. Immerse yourself in the mineral rich, hot thermal pools, at the bottom of silica terraces and instantly feel the silky smoothness on your skin and the warmth across your body. Let the days worries drift away and be replaced with the luxurious embrace of natural heat.
There’s something for everyone and it’s all under one fun-filled roof at The Landing! Perfect your tenpin bowling technique, let the kids bounce off the walls on the trampolines, beat the clock in the Ninja course, play in the arcade, watch the little ones enjoy the indoor playground, or simply sit back and enjoy a drink and a meal. The Dropzone is Taupo’s one and only destination for fun, thrills, laughter and excitement and the whole family is invited. So what are you waiting for?
Golfing
Take your conference to the course at Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary. Whether you want to treat staff with a round at our luxurious course, or have a group waiting to escape the boardroom, you'll find the perfect business events backdrop right here.
A Top 100 golf course, the Kinloch Club is a Championship inland links style Jack Nicklaus signature design. Measuring 6519 yards off the white tees, and 7363 yards off the Championship tees, Kinloch offers an exceptional golfing experience.
Experience sensational golf in Turangi at the southern end of Lake Taupo. The Turangi Golf Course is 18 holes, par 72 from both tees. The course is reasonably flat and has water features and good tree coverage.