Electric Doughboats on Lake Taupo – Unique Family Fun
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; no strenuous physical effort required
Overview
Cruise Lake Taupō in New Zealand’s only electric 'doughnut' boats. Perfect for families and groups, these silent, easy-to-drive vessels offer a fun, eco-friendly way to enjoy the lake’s stunning volcanic surroundings.
Doughboats
From $145 • All Ages • 1.5 hours sessions • Only Experience in NZ • Great for Family
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About This Adventure
Doughboats is a Taupo must-do!
Duration
1.5 Hours
About
Head off the shore of Lake Taupo in New Zealand’s only donut boats. Our eco-friendly Dough boats are one of the best things you can do in Taupo. They will take family and friends, young and old, on a unique and fun experience. The electric engine is as quiet as can be so you can enjoy your music on our bluetooth speakers. Doughboats is a Taupo must-do!
Nominate your captain from your group (of up to 6 people) and jump aboard! Rental sessions are 1.5 hours long. Our boats are super easy and safe to operate and can cruise up to 5 knots.
Book an evening session for a lit-up experience, our boats have multicolored lights which enhance your Dough boat cruise all the more.
Weekends book out quickly so make sure to reserve your Doughboat as soon as you can. You don’t want to miss out on one of Taupo’s top attractions!
More info
Want to rent all 3 boats? - Select time slots 40mins past the hour eg times: 7:40 am, 1.40 pm etc (Each boat holds a capacity of 6 passengers)
What to bring
Weather Suitable clothing
There will be a 15% surcharge on public holidays.
Adventure Tips
Reserve Weekends Early
Weekend slots fill quickly—book in advance to secure your preferred time.
Bring Weather-Appropriate Clothes
Dress in layers and bring windbreakers to stay comfortable on the open water.
Nominate a Captain
Choose a competent driver from your group before setting off to ensure smooth navigation.
Try Evening Sessions
Book a night cruise to experience the glowing LED lights on the boats for a unique atmosphere.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- New Zealand scaup (black teal)
- Fantail birds frequenting lakeside trees
History
Lake Taupō was formed by one of Earth’s largest volcanic eruptions about 26,500 years ago; Māori have long held strong cultural connections to the lake.
Conservation
Doughboats promotes low-impact boating to protect Taupō’s delicate aquatic ecosystems and supports local efforts to maintain water quality.
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Adventure Hotspots in Taupō
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Windbreaker or waterproof jacket
Protects against lake breezes and occasional rain showers.
spring specific
Sunscreen
Prevents sunburn during exposed daylight cruising.
summer specific
Warm layers
Keeps you comfortable against chilly lake air.
winter specific
Non-slip footwear
Ensures stable footing on wet boat surfaces.