THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Set out from Kinloch Marina for a 1.5-hour journey to three breathtaking waterfalls near Lake Taupō. Venture Beyond’s trip blends quick hikes with immersive scenic views, perfect for waterfall lovers and nature seekers.
Set out from Kinloch Marina for a 1.5-hour journey to three breathtaking waterfalls near Lake Taupō. Venture Beyond’s trip blends quick hikes with immersive scenic views, perfect for waterfall lovers and nature seekers.
Book with Venture Beyond
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Venture Beyond · Kinloch, Waikato
Just 20 minutes from the lively town of Taupō, Venture Beyond offers an invigorating 1.5-hour trip from Kinloch Marina that brings the hidden waterfalls of New Zealand’s Northern Western Bays into focus. This accessible adventure invites visitors to witness the raw power and serene beauty of two striking falls, complemented by a brief bushwalk to discover a third, tucked away in native forest. The experience strikes a fine balance between quick immersion and monumental nature—ideal for those with limited time but a craving for wilderness.
Kinloch’s location on Lake Taupō’s northern shore enchants with contrasting landscapes: dense native bush, rugged volcanic rock formations, and clear waterways enriched by the region’s geothermal activity. The waterfalls cascade over basalt and pumice stone, geological markers of the same volcanic forces that shaped the wider Taupō volcanic zone.
What sets Venture Beyond apart is its intimate approach—small groups departing from the convenient Kinloch Esplanade launch point ensure a personalized adventure amid this largely untouched environment. The brief walking portions are manageable for most fitness levels, making this trip perfect for people new to waterfall treks or families wanting gentle nature immersion.
Beyond the scenic highlights, the trip offers subtle encounters with local fauna, like tui birds flitting through the canopy or the occasional native fantail darting nearby. Cultural layers thread through the landscape as well; Māori history enriches the forested hills, reflecting longstanding respect for these waters as taonga (treasures).
Venture Beyond's Chasing Waterfalls trip is a standout for visitors eager to step off the beaten path near Taupō without committing to a full-day hike. It’s a concentrated nature hit that leaves a lasting impression and invites deeper visits to the captivating Waikato wilderness.
easy.
1.5 hours.
Suitable for moderate fitness; minimal uphill walking involved
The trip lasts approximately 1.5 hours, covering two main waterfalls and a short bushwalk to a third.
Yes, the trip is family-friendly with easy walking paths, though children should be supervised near water.
Comfortable sturdy shoes, a waterproof jacket, water, and a camera are recommended.
Yes, Venture Beyond provides knowledgeable guides who ensure a safe and informative experience.
Look out for native birds such as tui and fantail in the bush areas surrounding the waterfalls.
No, the walkways are short and manageable, suitable for most fitness levels.
The Northern Western Bays area carries significance for the local Māori iwi, whose legends speak of the guardianship over these waters and forests.
Venture Beyond operates with a strong commitment to preserving these fragile ecosystems, promoting low-impact visits and respecting native flora and fauna.
Venture Beyond is a Kinloch-based outdoor tour operator specialising in boat-accessible experiences on Lake Taupō. Operating from Kinloch Marina, Venture Beyond offers a range of guided trips that explore the Northern and Western Bays, including multiple “Chasing Waterfalls” options (Taster 1.5 hr, Explorer 2.5 hr, Adventurer 3.5 hr). These tours combine short bush walks, coastline exploration, and visits to Otupoto Falls and other waterfall sites only reachable by water. In addition to waterfall cruises, Venture Beyond provides private charter services tailored to schedules and group needs, and transfer options linked to the Great Lake Supervolcanic Trails. The Supervolcanics Bike Transfer and Transfers K2K services include scenic water taxi drops that reconnect riders to trailheads such as Kawakawa Bay. On longer trips, activities include paddle boarding, swimming, and picnics in secluded bays. Venture Beyond emphasises safety, local knowledge, and personalised service. Skippers provide guided commentary and route selection based on conditions and guest preferences. Refreshments are sourced locally for selected tours. Featured on The Adventure Collective, Venture Beyond operates from Kinloch, Waikato, and focuses on delivering accessible, boat-only access to Lake Taupō’s natural highlights.
Book with Venture Beyond