Tokaanu Village, Thermal Hot Pools, and Waihi :: The Waihi-Tokaanu geothermal field is located at the southern end of Lake Taupo, approximately 5 km north-west of Turangi. At Tokaanu there are thermal hot springs and pools offering private and public bathing. It is free to walk around and explore the thermal springs area bush walk. Tokaanu village and Waihi have a long rich history being the focus of activity on the Southern end of lake taupo before Turangi township was built in 1964. Local hapu Ngati Kurauia had their marae there, in the early 1880's it also became a European settlement after an Armed Constabulary became posted there in the early 1870s. One of the most spectacular phenomena and local sights are the nearby Waihi Steaming Cliffs. A series of fumaroles in the cliff above the settlement of Hipaua just before entering Waihi is responsible for the release of steam creating a mystical mythical scene. Turangi Trekking :: There are a myriad of spectacular walks within a short distance of Turangi. The walks vary from short 1 hour, low impact and easy pace to longer more demanding mountain treks. There are many riverside tracks along the Tongariro river if you simply want a beautiful casual morning walk. Some popular local treks include: Kaimanawa Forest Park - Pillars of Hercules to Urchin Camping Area [1 hour trek], Kaimanawa Road Forest Walk [20 minute trek], Tree Trunk Gorge Track [2 hours 30 minute trek]; Pukawa Bush Walk [45 minute trek]; Tokaanu Thermal Walk [20 minute trek]; Lake Rotopounamu [20 minute trek to lake one way, or 2 hours to and around lake]; Te Porere Redoubt [45 minute trek]; Tongariro River Loop Track [1 hour trek]. Climbing Wall :: In Turangi there is an International specifications climbing wall the "Vertical Assault." Vertical Assault boasts a challenging 14m vertical wall to accommodate the hardcore climbers as well as beginner top rope climbs of 5m. Climbers will find a dedicated lead wall, a 6x6m bouldering room, as well as gear hirage. Vertical Assault is open 7 days. Tongariro National Trout Centre :: The Tongariro Trout center has a stunning new building called "The River Walk" which is at the center of its facility full of interesting displays about the Tongariro trout fishery. The interior of "The River Walk" mimics the path of a river as it winds its way past rocks and boulders, with each turn of the river providing something new to see. As visitors walk through the centre each new display offers a different learning experience. There is a fantastic historic collection of antique cane rods and an impressive display of reels, some dating back to the 1800s. The Tongariro National Trout Centre is situated 3 kilometers south of the township of Turangi, on State Highway 1. Whakapapa & Chateau :: The Tongariro Trout center has a stunning new building called "The River Walk" which is at the center of its facility full of interesting displays about the Tongariro trout fishery. The interior of "The River Walk" mimics the path of a river as it winds its way past rocks and boulders, with each turn of the river providing something new to see. As visitors walk through the centre each new display offers a different learning experience. There is a fantastic historic collection of antique cane rods and an impressive display of reels, some dating back to the 1800s. The Tongariro National Trout Centre is situated 3 kilometers south of the township of Turangi, on State Highway 1. Popular Activity Locations :: All around Turangi.