Group Activities
Team Building Adventure for Everyone
The Taupo Region has excellent activity ideas from being pampered to soft adventure or the adrenalin pumping. For that large group, a number of activities may need to be offered. The group should be divided and rotated, meeting at a central venue, otherwise a choice of activities could be offered to suit the age and interests.
We have team building ideas and exciting combinations for that incentive group. All these can be organised by local specialists and Professional Conference Organisers or by the conference coordinator at the venue you have chosen to stay at. For initial ideas and advice contact the Lake Taupo Convention Bureau and view the options suggested by them.
Corporate Adventures
With 20 years combined experience they provide unbeatable service and facilitiation for corporate groups and incentive entertainment, team activities and exclusive themed night functions.
Activities
Quad Bikes - native bush locations
NZ Riverjet - jet boat on the mighty Waikato River
Fun Activities - Archery, Clay Target Shooting, Pistol Shooting, Knife and Axe Throwing, Pulse Ranger, Outdoor Laser Combat Game, Mechanical Bucking Bull and more
Team Building - mental agility programmes from half hour to full day
Team Development - from 1 hour to full day
Facilitation of Conference Openings and Coordination of Event
Dinner Themes - Award Dinners, Wild West, Medieval, MASH, Hollywood Oscars, Pirate etc
Incentive Adventure Plus
A combo idea ... float plane out to Orakei Korako, wander around this amazing thermal park, get picked up by NZ Riverjet, jet boat down the Waikato River to then be met by Taupo Quad bikes and ride off into the bush! Complete the day at the Kitenui Deer Farm, dine in their Antler Room or Gun Room and being entertained in a unique off site dinner venue!
| Contact: | Nick Berryman |
| Telephone: | +64 7 350 1533 |
| Fax: | +64 7 378 0809 |
| Email: | team@action-nz.co.nz |
| Web: | www.action-nz.co.nz |
Sir Edmund Hilary Outdoor Pursuits Centre
The Outdoor Pursuits Centre, situated in the Tongariro National Park is a pioneer in the use of the outdoors as a medium for developmental programmes within organisations. We offer corproate and business groups a tiered approach to their training needs, from straightforward team building exercises through to facilitating more complete behavioural or organisational change.
As well as lots of fun outdoor activities we have a full range of accommodation plus conferencing facilities, two large conference rooms, excellent home style cooking, bar facilities and large lounges with open fires to ensure a relaxing time is enjoyed by all.
| Contact: | Jill Prew |
| Telephone: | +64 7 386 5511 |
| Fax: | +64 7 386 0204 |
| Email: | opc@opc.org.nz |
| Web: | www.opc.org.nz |
Golfing
Wairakei International Golf Course
This 18-hole course was designed by an international trio in the late 1960's, comprising of Commander John Harris, Michael Wolveridge and Australian Peter Thomson. The course is an established, mature, unique course. The par 72, 6414m course meanders over 450 acres of rolling, wooded countryside, in the heart of Wairakei Park.
| Contact: | Kevin Park |
| Address: |
Wairakei International Golf Course, State Highway 1, Taupo |
| Telephone: | +64 7 374 8152 |
| Fax: | +64 7 374 8289 |
| Email: | wigc@globe.net.nz |
| Web: | www.wairakeigolfcourse.co.nz |
Taupo Golf Club
Taupo Golf Club has two 18-hole courses; Tauhara and Centennial. Club, trundler and cart hire available. The Golf Manager is available to deliver a unique and customised golfing experience for group bookings.
Centennial
A championship course of 6341 metres. It is a long course by New Zealand standards with large greens and strategically placed bunkers. Favoured by more experienced golfers, this course appeals as a true test of ones golfing skills!
This course has hosted a number of national and regional events including the annual NZ under 23 teams championship.
Tauhara
The shorter of our two courses but still quite long at 5677 metres. Very popular with visitors and the less experienced golfers. Noted for its thermal activity this course is much easier walking and recently featured a New Zealand record when two local golfers played 9 rounds of golf in one day.
| Contact: | Grant Hill |
| Address: | 32 Centennial Drive, Taupo |
| Telephone: | +64 7 378 6933 |
| Fax: | +64 7 378 6932 |
| Email: | play@taupogolf.co.nz |
| Web: | www.taupogolf.co.nz |
Turangi Golf Club
It claims to be the best fully landscaped 18-hole Golf Course in the Central North Island!
| Telephone: | +64 7 386 8724 |
| Fax: | +64 7 386 8734 |
| Email: | turangigolfclub@golf.co.nz |
Taupo Mini Golf
Situated right on the lakefront this is a fun activity for both groups and individuals.
| Contact: | Jim Boshier |
| Address: | Northcroft Street, PO Box 1188, Taupo |
| Telephone: | +64 7 377 1086 |
| Fax: | +64 7 377 1086 |
| Mobile: | +64 25 848 509 |
The Great Hole in One Challenge
The ultimate golfing challenge, lots of fun and many prizes to be won. From the lake edge, swing the club and hit the golf ball out onto a pontoon and try your luck at getting it into a hole! Excellent idea for your group at the end of a working day.
| Contact: | Jo |
| Telephone: | +64 7 378 8117 |
| Fax: | +64 7 378 5817 |
| Email: | holeinone@xtra.co.nz |
And don't forget the 9-Hole courses at
Bayview Wairakei Resort
Bayview Chateau Tongariro
Kinloch
Also watch the space out at the new Kinloch Golf Resort.
Adrenaline
Four Wheeled Motorbikes
Taupo Quad Bikes
Take a guided 4x4 bike tour through native New Zealand bush, farm and forest trails. One, Two or Three hour trips plus all day wilderness if you wish!
| Contact: | John Sutton |
| Address: | State Highway 1, PO Box 479, Taupo |
| Telephone: | +64 7 377 640 |
| Fax: | +64 7 377 6104 |
| Mobile: | +64 27 495 9575 |
| Email: | quad_adventures@xtra.co.nz |
| Web: | www.4x4quads.com |
Car Racing
Formula Challenge
For most people, the opportunity to drive a racing car is a distant dream. When you actually drive an F1 style "wings and slicks" Formula Challenge racing car, the experience is unforgettable.
- Climb in the cockpit and experience the magic normally reserved for seasoned professionals.
- Witness the awesome acceleration as you ease on the power.
- Marvel at the handling as you take the most amazing drive of your life.
Whatever your objective, whether it be personal or corporate entertainment, the exhilaration and benefits are enormous.
Formula Challenge is an approved Motorsport New zealand Motor Racing School and whatever your skill level, the cars can be driven by novices in complete safety.
| Address: | PO Box 548, Taupo |
| Telephone: | +64 7 377 0338 |
| Fax: | +64 7 377 4635 |
| Mobile: | +64 274 503 789 |
| Web: | www.fcr.co.nz |
Freshwater Frenzy
Huka Prawn Park
At the Huka Prawn Park, you will enjoy a fascinating tour at the world's only geothermally heated prawn farm, which produces the Giant Malaysian Freshwater Prawn, now NZ's freshwater prawn! After the tour, take a seat in the restaurant and taste the prawns you have just learnt so much about. Prawn Farm can accommodate 200 people in their restaurant under cover, 400 in total!
| Contact: | Karen Rainbow |
| Address: | Huka Prawn Park, Wairakei Park, Taupo |
| Telephone: | +64 7 374 8303 |
| Fax: | +64 7 374 8204 |
| Email: | info@prawnpark.co.nz |
| Web: | www.prawnfarm.co.nz |
Hukafalls Jet
Hukafalls Jet is located right next door to the Huka Prawn Park. Join the team for a thrilling 20-minute jet boat ride down the Waikato River to the mighty Huka Falls. You will pass by clouds of steam rising where a hot stream joins the river and hurtle past sheer cliffs with just centimetres to spare. You will love the famous "Huka Jet 360 degree spin" where your driver spins your Hukafalls Jet boat in its own length at high speed.
Hukafalls Jet has four boats available and can handle around 100 people an hour. Hukafalls Jet is well suited to groups who have a short time frame or who require flexibility. The 'Bubbles on the Beach' trip is a great option or why not try the Freshwater Frenzy which combines the excitement of Hukafalls Jet with the uniqueness of a meal at the Prawn Farm.
| Contact: | Michelle Caldwell |
| Address: | Wairakei Tourist Park, PO Box 563, Taupo |
| Telephone: | +64 7 374 8572 |
| Fax: | +64 7 374 8573 |
| Email: | info@hukafallsjet.com |
| Web: | www.hukafallsjet.com |
Rapids Jet
Rapids Jet is a spectacular white water jet boating trip where you speed through narrow canyons and braided shallows, plus 'surf the wave' of the internationally acclaimed 'Fulljames Rapids'. Experience 360 degree spins and at the same time hear an excellent commentary on the history of the area.
There are many ways one can combine activities so that groups, depending on size, can enjoy this incredible journey.
| Contact: | Russell Poppe |
| Address: | Rapids Road, Aratiatia, Taupo |
| Telephone: | +64 7 378 5828 |
| Fax: | +64 7 378 3828 |
| Email: | info@rapidsjet.com |
| Web: | www.rapidsjet.com |
Not So Frenzy .... On The Water
Chris Jolly Boats
What better environment than the lake to make your power presentation one to remember! Take on of the fully equipped boats that can cater for up to 50 delegates theatre style or 60 delegates banquet style and go for a cruise. Celebrate your end of year, launch a new product, host a cocktail/jazz evening, have predinner trout fishing and skeet shooting and then dinner. Plan an outrageous fancy dress themed party! Let Chris Jolly Outdoors discuss a tailor made entertainment package or incentive day with the WOW factor.
| Contact: | Sue or Chris Jolly |
| Telephone: | +64 7 378 0623 |
| Fax: | +64 7 378 9458 |
| Email: | chrisj@chrisjolly.co.nz |
| Web: | www.chrisjolly.co.nz |
Historical Riverboat Cruise On 'Waireka'
Enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery on the Waikato River. Glide past water lilies, swans and native bush. Relax with friends in the hot waters of Lake Ohakuri. Licensed to carry 48 passengers. Great for small or large groups. Morning, noon or night get away for a break from that conference room!
| Contact: | Shane and Ngaire Jones |
| Address: | River Road, Reporoa |
| Telephone: | +64 7 333 8400 |
| Email: | waishane@kol.co.nz |
Kayaking / Mountain Biking / Rafting Combos
Rapid Sensations Adventures
A combination of activities is offered by this company - they can be combined to give a group lots of options for a half day or a full day of adventure. A one shop adventure.
White Water Rafting on the Tongariro River where there are more than 50 boulder strewn rapids to test your teamwork. The level of difficulty is moderate but consistent. Allow 6 horus.
Mountain Biking - a group trip with a guide starting high in the pine forest behind the 'Craters of the Moon' and finishing at Huka Falls. All levels of ability and fitness are catered for.
Waikato Kayak Cruise. This trip starts from the source of the mighty Waikato River and finishes with a small rapid just above Huka Falls! It is a gentle paddle down through a scenic waterway.
Kayaking Kiwi - Kayaking Kiwi provides an eco-kayaking adventure experience. They will take you to the remotest and most most scenic places on Lake Taupo, the largest fresh water lake in Australasia. Learn about the history of Taupo, the lake and yourself.
Abseiling & Rock Climbing - great for personal development!
Forest Walks - Opepe Walk (2.5 hour excursion), Rotopunamu Walk (4-5 hour excursion), Pureora Walk (full day excursion).
| Contact: | Kristen Grose |
| Address: | PO Box 321, Taupo |
| Telephone: | +64 7 378 7902 |
| Fax: | +64 7 378 7904 |
| Email: | info@rapids.co.nz |
| Web: | www.rapids.co.nz |
Wilderness Escapes New Zealand
Wilderness Escapes has years of experience with school groups, conference groups and team building events and offer superior, fun activities guided by qualified outdoor instructors. According to what you are looking for we organise (a combination of) kayaking, rock climbing, abseiling, hikes, walks and caving.
Wilderness Escapes will introduce you to some of the best natural wilderness that NZ has to offer. Activities can range from a couple of hours to multiple days and for small or large groups.
| Contact: | Brian Neville |
| Telephone: | +64 7 378 3413 |
| Fax: | +64 7 378 3493 |
| Mobile: | +64 27 477 6066 |
| Email: | info@wildernessescapes.co.nz |
| Web: | www.wildernessescapes.co.nz |
Tongariro Experience
On the southern shores of the lake lies Turangi, the Trout Fishing Capital of the World, the home of Tongariro River Rafting.
Tongariro River Rafting plays an integral part in providing adventure activities and offers visitors the opportunity to participate in some unique and challenging, yet safe and exhilarating fun. We offer a wide range of activities including white water rafting, family floats, raft fishing, adventure weekends, abseiling, caving, mountain biking, orienteering, paintball, guided walks and canyoning.
We provide all specialist equipment needed to partake in your adventure. Professional guides and good equipment are trademarks that ensure that you will experience a unique and safe adventure.
| Contact: | Garth & Leigh Oakden |
| Address: | PO Box 281, Turangi |
| Telephone: | +64 7 386 6409 |
| Fax: | +64 7 386 6465 |
| Email: | rafting@xtra.co.nz |
| Web: | www.tongariro-riverrafting.com |
Kiwi River Safaris
A dedicated team can show you an excellent day out on the river. The guides are fully trained professionals who are passionate about rafting and rivers. White water rafting by its nature is a team building activity. KRS can design the trip that best suits your group. Kayak tours take place on the Waikato River where the beautiful scenery can be explored plus all trips include a soak in the natural hot springs.
| Contact: | Simon & Julie McLeod |
| Address: | PO Box 434, Taupo |
| Telephone: | +64 7 377 6597 |
| Fax: | +64 7 377 6572 |
| Mobile: | +64 25 220 4608 |
| Web: | www.krs.co.nz |
Skiing
Ruapehu Alpine Lifts (RAL)
Skiing Mt Ruapehu (July - October). Both skifields are managed by Ruapehu Alpine Lifts (RAL). Taupo to Mt Ruapehu - drive time 1-1.5 hours.
Whakapapa Ski Area
New Zealand's largest ski area - 675 metres vertical. 23 lifts : 1 express quad chairlift, 1 quad chairlift, 4 double chairlifts, 4 T-bars, 4 platter lifts, 7 learner tows. Ski and snowboard hire, ski school, ski shop, ski workshop, 5 cafeterias, crechec, ski patrol.
| Address: | Private Bag, Mt Ruapehu |
| Telephone: | +64 7 892 3738 |
| Fax: | +64 7 892 3732 |
| Email: | snow@whakapapa.co.nz |
| Web: | www.mtruapehu.com |
Turoa Ski Area
New Zealand's biggest vertical drops - 720 metres. 12 lifts - 2 quad chairlfits, 2 triple chairlifts, 3 T-bars, 4 platter lifts, 1 rope tow. Ski and snowboard hire, ski school, ski shop, ski workshops and 3 cafeterias.
| Web: | www.mtruapehu.com |
Climbing Wall
Taupo Events Centre
Taupo now has the state of the art Taupo Events Centre and it adjoins the AC Baths Complex. With over 5000 square metres this venue is large enough to host major tournaments, exhibitions, trade shows or conferences and it is just minutes from town. It also has a 12 metre climbing wall to test both teams and individuals.
| Telephone: | +64 7 376 0358 |
| Fax: | +64 7 376 0348 |
| Email: | tecentre@taupovenues.co.nz |
| Web: | www.taupoeventscentre.co.nz |
Sailing
Sailing Centre
Perfect for the team building exercises - hire 16-foot keelers, catamarans, windsurfers, canoes and rowboats. Set up the ultimate water sport challenge! Plan an evening function at the club house...
| Contact: | Tony Landl |
| Address: | 2 Mile Bay, Taupo |
| Telephone: | +64 21 413345 |
| Fax: | +64 7 378 3274 |
| Mobile: | +64 25 88 6588 (at Sailing Centre) |
| Web: | www.sailingcentre.co.nz |
Paintball
The Ultimate Challenge - Topgun Paintball
| Contact: | Malcolm Sutton |
| Address: | Taupo |
| Telephone: | +64 7 377 6404 |
| Fax: | +64 7 377 6104 |
| Mobile: | +64 274 908 964 |
| Email: |
info@topgunpaintball.com |
| Web: | www.topgunpaintball.co.nz |
Horse Riding
Harakeke Equestrian Farm Experience
Horseriding at its best with treks suited to your needs and desires! The horses are well trained to equestrian level and can be suitably matched to all levels of riding ability. The treks take place in native bush and on a working dairy and sheep farm. All equipment provided.
| Contact: | Karen & Wally Neiderer |
| Address: | State Highway 1, RD 1, Taupo |
| Telephone: | +64 7 377 3545 |
| Fax: | +64 7 377 3532 |
| Mobile: | +64 27 291 5421 |
| Email: | harakeke@clear.net.nz |
| Web: | www.taupoequestrian.co.nz |
Taupo Horse Treks
You will enjoy a guided ride through pine forest and the Craters of the Moon thermal area. Beginners to experienced riders are catered for.
| Address: | Karapiti Road, Wairakei Park, Taupo |
| Telephone: | +64 7 378 0356 |
| Email: | taupohorsetreks@orcon.net.nz |
| Web: | www.taupohorsetreks.co.nz |
Helicopter Experience
Helistar Helicopters
Inspire your conference delegates with an awesome helicopter flight-seeing experience. Covering some of the most majestic icons in the North Island, Helistar Helicopters have designed a range of scenic flights to suit every budget and interest. With several helicopters Helistar can accommodate larger group bookings through to specialised individual packages including customised charters.
| Contact: | Bruce Lilburn |
| Address: | Huka Falls Road, Wairakei Park, Taupo |
| Telephone: | +64 7 374 8405 |
| Fax: | +64 7 374 8406 |
| Email: | bruce@helistar.co.nz |
| Web: | www.helistar.co.nz |
Helipro
Heli fishing, scenic flights, heli hiking, heli/launch combos, corporate charters, golf/vineyard excursions, aerial filming - Ultimate Helicopter Experiences!
| Contact: | Toby Clark |
| Telephone: | +64 7 377 8805 |
| Fax: | +64 7 377 8806 |
| Email: | cushla@helipro.co.nz |
| Web: | www.helipro.co.nz |