Taupo Floatplane Scenic Flights
A Unique Flightseeing Experience Over Lake Taupo & Tongariro
Taupo’s Floatplane offers unforgettable Taupo floatplane scenic flights, departing directly from the waters of Great Lake Taupo. This unique flightseeing experience gives you a true aerial perspective of one of New Zealand’s most spectacular regions, including Lake Taupo, Tongariro National Park, the Bay of Plenty, and surrounding geothermal landscapes.
Taking off and landing on water, our scenic flights by seaplane are one of the most memorable and unique activities in Taupo.
Book a Taupo Floatplane Scenic Flight
Take off from the water and experience one of the most unique activities in Taupo.
Check availability and book your Taupo floatplane scenic flight today.
Scenic Flights by Seaplane Over Lake Taupo
Board our high-wing Cessna 206 floatplane and experience the magic of flight from the water. With unrestricted views from every seat, you’ll look down on:
- Sparkling lakes and remote bays
- Snow-capped volcanic peaks
- Tongariro’s dramatic mountain landscape
- Geothermal fields and steaming vents
- Rolling surf beaches and native forest
Taupo floatplane scenic flights offer a completely different perspective compared to helicopters or land-based aircraft—and are ideal for photography and sightseeing.
Taupo Scenic Flight Options & Packages
Choose from a range of scheduled Taupo scenic flights or combine your flight with an unforgettable adventure.
A Taste of Taupo (Approx. 10 minutes)
A perfect introduction to Taupo flightseeing, including Acacia Bay, Waikato River headwaters, Craters of the Moon, Wairakei geothermal area, and Huka Falls.
A Peek at the Lake (Approx. 20 minutes)
Discover the immense size of New Zealand’s largest lake, flying along Taupo’s northern bays toward Kinloch before returning via Huka Falls.
Western Bay Explorer (Approx. 30 minutes)
Explore the most remote and picturesque western bays of Lake Taupo—areas inaccessible by road—featuring towering volcanic cliffs and crystal-clear water.
Orakei Korako Scenic Flight & Landing
Fly over geothermal landscapes before landing on the Waikato River to explore the hidden valley of Orakei Korako on foot.
Mt Ruapehu & Tongariro National Park Scenic Flight (Approx. 60 minutes)
A spectacular volcanic flight over Turangi, Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngauruhoe, Mount Tongariro, the Red Crater, Emerald Lakes, and ancient lava flows.
Rotorua Lakes & Volcanic Landscapes
Fly north over Rotorua’s lakes, Mount Tarawera’s volcanic fissure, Wai-O-Tapu geothermal area, and Orakei Korako.
White Island Scenic Flight (Approx. 2 hours)
An epic flight over the Bay of Plenty to New Zealand’s most active volcano, White Island, with optional geothermal landing at Orakei Korako.
Scenic Flight & Adventure Combos
Fly ’n Raft – Scenic Flight & Whitewater Rafting
Combine your Taupo floatplane scenic flight with an exhilarating whitewater rafting experience on the Tongariro River. Fly the length of Lake Taupo, land at the southern end, then raft through untouched scenery before returning to Taupo by courtesy vehicle.
Suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.
A Unique Way to Celebrate Special Occasions
Looking for something truly memorable? Taupo’s Floatplane can help create unforgettable moments, including:
- Marriage proposals
- Wedding transport
- Romantic secluded picnics
- Birthday and anniversary surprises
Private beach drop-offs and tailored scenic flights can be arranged by request.
Taupo Floatplane Operating Times
- Summer: Daily (except Christmas Day), 8:30am – 5:30pm
- Winter: From 9:00am, weather permitting
- Twilight flights available by advance booking
All flights are weather dependent, and bookings are recommended.
Taupo Air Taxi & Custom Flights
Taupo’s Floatplane also operates an air taxi service and can tailor flights to your needs, including:
- Western Bays of Lake Taupo
- Transfers to boats
- Secluded beaches for hiking or picnics
- Rotorua, Tarawera, Tauranga, and Lake Ohakuri
Why Choose Taupo’s Floatplane?
- One of the top-rated Taupo activities
- Unique water take-off and landing
- Unrestricted scenic views
- Access to remote locations
- Ideal for sightseeing, photography & special occasions
Booking Information
- Minimum of 2 adult fares required
- Children 3–15 years: half price
- Children under 3: free
- All flights are weather dependent
Taupo Floatplane Scenic Flights – FAQs
What are Taupo floatplane scenic flights?
Taupo floatplane scenic flights are sightseeing flights that take off and land on Lake Taupo, offering aerial views of volcanic landscapes, lakes, and national parks.
Who operates floatplane scenic flights in Taupo?
Taupo’s Floatplane is the only operator offering floatplane scenic flights directly from Lake Taupo.
What can you see on a Taupo floatplane flight?
Flights offer views over Lake Taupo, Tongariro National Park, Mount Ruapehu, geothermal areas, Huka Falls, Rotorua lakes, and the Bay of Plenty.
Are Taupo floatplane flights suitable for families?
Yes. Taupo floatplane scenic flights are suitable for families, with children aged 3–15 flying at half price and infants under 3 flying free.
Do Taupo floatplane scenic flights depend on weather?
Yes. All floatplane scenic flights operate weather permitting, and advance bookings are recommended.
