A little more time, a lot more country. After the falls and the river, we track along the lake shore past Taupō town and out over the water to Mine Bay, where giant Māori rock carvings are etched into the cliff face — only truly appreciated from the air. On the way home we swing over the Craters of the Moon geothermal reserve, its bubbling mud and hissing fumaroles a reminder that this whole landscape is alive.
Highlights
- Huka Falls and the Waikato River from above
- Mine Bay Māori rock carvings — accessible only by air or water
- Craters of the Moon geothermal reserve
- Taupō town and lakefront from the air
Keep exploring
Wairakei At a Glimpse
First time in a helicopter? This is the one — short enough to give you the buzz but long enough to enjoy what Taupō has to offer.
View flightHuka by Helicopter
Soar above Taupō's picturesque farmlands, lush landscapes, and geothermal power stations. Marvel at the Waikato River's powerful flow crashing into the pool below on a scenic helicopter ride.
View flightWestern Bays
Cross Lake Taupō to the Western Bays, where bush-clad cliffs drop straight into deep water, the Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay sit untouched below, and the remarkable Otupoto Falls cascades into the lake.
View flight