Fun in the sun for the whole family

• Published date: 24 December 2020
• Date: 24 December 2020
• Publication title: Taupo Weekender

In Tūrangi, the beautiful Tongariro River Walk is a stroll (or bike ride) for all seasons and provides plenty of shade on a hot day. An easy loop that’s not too long is from the main road bridge to the Major Jones Bridge along one side of the river, returning along the other. On the way you’ll see anglers, swimmers if it’s hot, meet friendly locals and see vistas of the river and Kaimanawa Ranges.

Playgrounds Taupō District is spoilt for playgrounds and wherever you are, there’s bound to be one not far away. In Taupō itself, the Tongariro Domain playground is the perennial favourite and has just had a facelift. It’s shady and water and toilet facilities are close by. The Beasley Park playground in Acacia Bay also ranks high on the list of kids’ choices, with a boat and a sandpit to keep them occupied. Other popular playgrounds can be found at Spa Park, The Circle, the playground next to Lake Taupō Christian School in Kiddle Drive (a bonus for parents: no swings to push), Taharepa Rd, Mere Rd, Rotokawa St, and the two playgrounds in Richmond Ave.

In Tūrangi, many of the little reserves have a play feature or two but the main playgrounds are next to the Turtle Pools, behind the Tūrangi Senior Citizens’ Hall and the playground in Taupahi Rd.

SwimmingIf you’re looking for somewhere sandy that’s gentle on little feet, the main beach along the lakefront is a great choice. It has a sandy bottom and you can walk out a long way before the water becomes too deep. Five Mile Bay is also good for similar reasons. Acacia Bay’s beaches have shade and are sheltered from the prevailing westerly wind. Wharewaka and Kinloch beaches are popular but drop off steeply, particularly around Wharewaka Point. It is very easy to get out of your depth and young children must be closely supervised. Further south, Hallett’s Bay offers great swimming and a sandy lake bed, as does Stump Bay just north of Tūrangi.

The best-value swimming pool in the district is Tūrangi’s heated Turtle Pool complex which has a...