Taupo & the Central Plateau - New Zealand - page 474

Taihape & Around
POP 1500
Taihape, 20km south of Waiouru, enjoys the dubious distinction of being the Gumboot
Capital of the World, celebrated with - you guessed it - a giant corrugated gumboot on
the main road. It is also the access point for Mokai Gravity Canyon ( 06-388 9109,
0800 802 864; www.gravitycanyon.co.nz ; 332 Mokai Rd; 9am-5pm) , 20km southeast, where -
adrenaline-junkies can take a 1km, 170m-high flying-fox ride at speeds of up to 160km/h
($155); dive from the North Island's highest bridge bungy (80m, $179); or freefall for
50m on a tandem swing ($159). Multi-thrill packages are available.
Taihape is also the nearest town to River Valley ( 06-388 1444; www.rivervalley.co.nz ) ,
an adventure centre and lodge 32km to the northeast (follow the signs from Taihape's
Gretna Hotel). Their popular half-day white-water rafting trip takes in the thrilling Grade
V rapids of the Rangitikei River ($175). Free-style horse treks are also offered, which
take in views of Mt Ruapehu, the Ruahine Range and the Rangitikei River (two hours
$109, half-day $175). Lodge accommodation (from $31) is also offered, as are meals in
the on-site restaurant, featuring fresh ingredients from the lodge's gardens.
For more information, visit www.taihape.co.nz .