Welcome to Taihape

The Gumboot Capital of the World!

Taihape has many great attributes! There are some fabulous Cafes and Eateries to cater to your needs.

As for things to do in Taihape well, where do we start??

Perhaps you’d enjoy some rafting? A trip out to River Valley will enliven your spirit or for the gentler family fun rafting join the crew at  Mangaweka Adventure Co at the Awastone Camping Ground where you can enjoy a wine/beer and food overlooking the beautiful Rangitikei River & Pappa Cliffs. For the quiet nature loving types there’s plenty of trout fishing to be done at Green Trout Guiding and Tarata Fishaways.

You could get your walking shoes on explore some of the stunning walking tracks in the area - you’ll witness some of New Zealand’s best scenery. There is heaps of cycle rides in the district and great shopping on the main street.

For entertainment at night why not rock on up to one of New Zealand’s oldest & grandest picture theatre. Speaking of old historic places you could visit the Taihape Museum or a small drive away is the New Zealand Army Museum in Waiouru.

In the winter season Taihape is only a short distance away from Mt Ruapehu - just 50 minutes you can be on the snow!

Come to Taihape and check out this happening little town, full of activity and country spirit and don’t forget while you’re here to get your photo taken next to our famous giant Corrugated iron Gumboot sculptured by Jeff Thompson and go throw a gumboot in the gumboot throwing alley near the old railway station.