Cheap Date Ideas in Taupo

Whakaipo Bay is a stunning location that offers a serene natural setting for a romantic date. The bay's clear waters and the picturesque scenery make it an ideal spot for couples who love the outdoors. The area is spacious, and there is ample parking space for motorhomes and cars. However, the freedom camping area may not be suitable for those who prefer more private and exclusive settings. The gravel road leading to the bay can be dusty, which may be a minor inconvenience for some. Overall, this is an excellent location for couples who enjoy nature and want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Photo NorNy S

For nature-loving couples, the Waipahihi Botanical Reserve in Taupo offers a romantic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The reserve is a peaceful haven, with well-maintained walking tracks that wind through native bush, providing ample opportunities for couples to take a relaxing stroll and enjoy the stunning views of the flowers. The reserve's natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a romantic picnic or a quiet afternoon getaway. Though the reserve is not a traditional botanical garden, it offers a unique and refreshing experience for couples seeking a tranquil date. The reserve's popularity is evident from the reviews, which are overwhelmingly positive.

Photo Waipahihi Botanical Reserve

Wharewaka Point (Four Mile Bay) is a picturesque spot in Taupō, perfect for a romantic date with a stunning view of the lake. The area is well-maintained with beautiful flowers, clear water, and cute ducks and swans. The park offers ample space for couples to enjoy a romantic picnic, with picnic tables and BBQ facilities available. Although the beach isn't sandy, it's still a great place to relax and appreciate the serene atmosphere. The park is well-equipped with toilets and water filling stations. This spot is highly recommended for couples seeking a peaceful and intimate date, with the added bonus of a beautiful sunset view.

Photo Stephen Muir

A romantic date on the Huka Falls River Cruise in Rotokawa is a must-do for couples who appreciate the beauty of nature. This experience offers a chance to take in the stunning scenery of the Waikato River, with the added bonus of getting up close and personal with Huka Falls. The skipper is highly knowledgeable and provides informative commentary, making it a great opportunity for couples to learn something new together. The cruise is an excellent value for money, and the duration is just right, allowing enough time to enjoy the experience without it feeling too long.

Huka Falls in Taupō is a breathtaking natural wonder that offers a unique and awe-inspiring date experience. The falls are easily accessible with a short walk from the car park, and the surrounding park offers plenty of space for couples to take in the stunning views. The sound of the water and the striking blue color of the falls create a romantic ambiance that is sure to impress. However, it is a popular tourist attraction, so it can get crowded at times, especially on the bridge overlooking the falls. It is also worth noting that the area can get chilly, so it's best to dress accordingly. Overall, Huka Falls is a must-visit for couples looking for a romantic outdoor date.

The Hipapatua Recreational Reserve in Taupo is a great option for couples looking for a romantic getaway that is off the beaten path. As a free camping spot, it offers a unique experience for those who enjoy roughing it in the great outdoors. The reserve's stunning location by the Waikato River is a major draw, providing a serene and tranquil atmosphere that is perfect for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. While there are no running water or electricity facilities, the reserve does offer basic amenities such as portaloos and dishwashing facilities. However, this might not be the best option for those who are looking for a more luxurious or comfortable date experience. It's important to note that the reserve can get crowded during peak season, so it's best to arrive early to secure a spot.

Photo Marie Pierce

Tongariro North Domain in Taupō is a picturesque park with plenty of activities to keep couples occupied. The lush greenery and beautiful trees provide a romantic backdrop for a leisurely stroll or picnic. Families with children will appreciate the variety of play equipment available, including a chess set and train. The park is conveniently located near the main shopping area and the lake, making it an ideal stopover for those exploring the town. The hiking trails are a must-try for adventurous couples, offering stunning views of the snow-capped mountains. The park's popularity among tourists might make it a bit crowded, which could detract from the overall experience.

Photo chak ming li

If you and your date are thrill-seekers, then the Rapids Jet Taupō is a must-visit attraction. This jet boat experience is not for the faint of heart, but it is perfect for adventurous couples looking to add some excitement to their date. The staff is highly knowledgeable and friendly, making for a comfortable and safe experience. The stunning Waikato River is the perfect backdrop for this exhilarating ride. However, those who are prone to motion sickness should take caution. With affordable pricing and great value for money, this experience is perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush.

For couples seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Eika Cave in Taupō is a hidden gem. The cave is a bit difficult to find, adding to the sense of adventure, but once you get there, it's well worth the effort. The cave is small but offers a unique exploration opportunity, with two cavernous spaces to discover. The last part of the cave requires crawling on hands and knees, so it's not for the faint of heart or anyone who is claustrophobic. The cave's natural beauty is breathtaking, but the mud and dirt may detract from the overall ambiance. It's also important to note that this cave may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with mobility issues.

Photo Sebastian Eika

Hot Water Beach in Waipahihi, Taupō, is a unique and intriguing location for a romantic date. The beach offers a natural hot spring that is sure to add a memorable and relaxing experience to your date. However, it is important to note that the hot water is only present in one section of the beach. The walk along the lake is beautiful and provides great photo opportunities, especially during sunset with the black swans. The abundance of pumice on the beach might not be everyone's cup of tea, but it is a unique feature that adds to the beach's character. The beach is accessible from the road, making it easy to get to. The reviews are generally positive, with people recommending it for a refreshing dip.

Photo Alan Aim (Ramblin' Rover)

For couples who love nature walks, Craters of the Moon in Taupō is a must-visit destination. This tourist attraction offers a unique opportunity to witness the earth's power, with a scenic walk that takes visitors through a valley of different craters. The natural beauty of the area is breathtaking, and the information provided about the craters adds to the overall experience. However, visitors should be aware that there is a time limit on the walk, and the siren that signals the end of the walk can be stressful. The staff has received mixed reviews, with some visitors finding them unfriendly. Despite this, the affordable price and the well-maintained walkways make it a great value for money.

Indian Affair Taupo is a perfect spot for a romantic dinner for couples who enjoy a cozy and intimate setting. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere that is further enhanced by the attentive and friendly staff. The food is highly recommended by previous patrons, with the restaurant receiving rave reviews for their delicious and authentic Indian cuisine. The banquet for two is a great option for those who want to try a bit of everything and is reasonably priced. The only downside is that the restaurant can get quite busy, so reservations are recommended to ensure that you get a table. Overall, Indian Affair Taupo is a great choice for a romantic date night that won't break the bank.

For couples seeking a peaceful and natural retreat, Spa Thermal Park in Taupō offers a unique and affordable option. The park's thermal pools are a highlight, with visitors enjoying a relaxing soak in the warm waters. The park is also situated near a river, which provides a picturesque backdrop for a romantic stroll. The changing rooms and toilets are basic but functional, and the park's cafe offers light refreshments. While the park's natural beauty and serenity is a drawcard, the lack of privacy and limited activities may not suit all couples. Overall, Spa Thermal Park is a great option for couples seeking a low-key and budget-friendly date idea.

Photo Brian Fischer

Full Moon View in Bulli Point boasts a breathtaking vista of Lake Taupo, making it a prime spot for a romantic date. The lack of amenities might be a drawback for some, but the location is perfect for couples who prefer a more secluded and intimate setting. The absence of crowds also adds to the allure of the place, allowing couples to bask in the tranquility of the surroundings. However, the absence of lights could be a concern for those who plan to visit at night. It is advisable to bring your own lighting equipment if you plan to visit after dark. Overall, Full Moon View is a great spot for a romantic getaway that won't break the bank.

Photo pego flat

Nature lovers and adventure seekers will find a visit to Aratiatia Rapids to be a thrilling and educational experience. The main attraction is the opening of the dam gates that unleashes a powerful surge of water, which is a sight to behold. The walk to the mid-platform is easy but requires navigating some rocky terrain, which may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. The best time to visit is 15-20 minutes before the release. Admission is free, which makes it a budget-friendly option for a romantic date. While it may not be the most private of locations, the stunning natural beauty and the adrenaline rush from watching the water flow down the gorge make it a memorable outing for couples.

Lotus Thai Restaurant in Taupo offers a delectable culinary experience for couples looking for a cozy, intimate setting. The restaurant boasts a friendly and attentive staff, adding to the overall charm and ambiance. The food is highly praised, with customers raving about the wonderful flavors and presentation. The absence of some of the restaurant's unique touches, such as the lotus-shaped napkins and hot towel offering, might be missed by returning customers, but it doesn't detract from the overall experience. The pricing is also reasonable for the quality of the food and service, making it a great option for those looking for a romantic dinner without breaking the bank.

Riverside Park in Taupo is a picturesque destination for a romantic date. The park offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere, which is perfect for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The park's expansive greenery and scenic views make it an ideal spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. However, it may not offer much in terms of privacy, as it is a public park. The park is also dog-friendly, which can be a plus or a minus depending on your preferences. The park is host to several events throughout the year, including the popular summer concert series, which adds to its charm. Overall, Riverside Park is a great option for a simple, low-key date that won't break the bank.

Photo Tracey Lamb

Tieke Waterfall is a remote and picturesque waterfall located in Waihaha, accessible only by boat from the lake. While the journey to the waterfall is breathtaking, the waterfall itself can only be viewed from a distance, which might not be ideal for couples seeking a more intimate experience. It is important to note that there is no clear walk track to the waterfall, and it is located on private Maori land, which might make it a less accessible option for some. Despite these factors, the stunning scenery and serene ambiance make it a worthwhile option for couples who appreciate nature and enjoy a bit of adventure.

Photo Taju Ullrich

Bella Vista Motel Taupo is a cozy lodging option that offers comfort and convenience at an affordable price. The compact studio rooms are well-equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay, including high-quality toiletries. The friendly and welcoming staff have been praised for their excellent service, and they go above and beyond to make guests feel at home. While the motel's location isn't central, it's still within easy reach of the town's attractions. The soundproofing in the bathroom could be better, but this is a minor issue. Overall, Bella Vista Motel Taupo is a great option for couples seeking a comfortable and affordable place to stay in Taupo.

Taupo Museum and Art Gallery is a small yet charming museum that provides a fun and educational experience for couples looking to learn more about the history of Taupo. The museum's collection of artefacts, newspaper clippings, and local Maori items are well-organised and informative. The museum also offers a treasure hunt for kids, making it a great family-friendly option. The adjacent rose garden adds to the overall appeal of the museum, providing a lovely spot for couples to sit and relax. However, the museum's size may limit the length of the date. The affordable entrance fee makes it an accessible option for those on a budget.