About Taupo's Floatplane
Taupo's Floatplane offers a unique scenic flight experience aboard a high-wing Cessna 206 seaplane, taking off and landing directly on the waters of Lake Taupo. Operating since the early 2000s, they provide aerial tours over the Tongariro National Park volcanoes, Lake Taupo's vast crater lake, and the surrounding geothermal landscape.
Their most popular flight climbs to 10,000 feet for views into the active crater lake of Mount Ruapehu, with additional routes covering Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe, Huka Falls from above, and the geothermal valleys of Wairakei. Flights range from short scenic loops to extended volcanic safaris, and luxury combo packages pair flights with vineyard lunches or lakeside dining experiences.
The thrill of a water takeoff and landing sets this apart from any standard scenic flight — passengers feel the transition from lake to sky as the floatplane lifts off the water surface. With unrestricted views from the high-wing aircraft and commentary from experienced pilots, it delivers a perspective on the Central Plateau that no other operator can match.
