Taupo

New Zealand’s largest lake is an immense volcanic crater fed by many sparkling rivers brimming with trout. It is one of the best rainbow and brown trout fisheries in the world.

Lake Taupo is dominated by the active volcanoes of Tongariro National Park (a World Heritage Area), and is drained by the mighty Waikato, our largest river.

Taupo’s tourism catchcry is ‘Think Fresh’ – fresh water, snow, air, trout, people and fun – you get the picture. The region is choc full of free and low cost activities – here are a few to start with:-

Begin to get acquainted with Taupo on the hilltop lookout, 1 km north of the town.
The corner of SH.1 and Huka Falls Road offers unparalleled views of the whole region.

Take a stroll through the Taupo Domain and Boat Harbour
Starting from the main street, walk through the gardens and along to the boat ramp and marina. Circle back past the motor camp and the Great Lake Centre. The boat harbour has over 20 charter vessels catering for fishing, sailing and sightseeing.

Explore the Taupo Museum and Art Gallery
There is a collection of 50 Maori carvings, historical artefacts and a permanent art display.

Explore the Spa Park and Huka Falls Walkway
This riverside walk runs from the town to the thundering Huka Falls and on to the swirling Aratiatia Rapids – both are ‘must see’ attractions.

Visit ‘Craters of the Moon’, which is opposite the main Huka Falls access road
This is a wondrous moonscape of steaming fumaroles and boiling mud pools. Afterwards visit the Prawn Park, Honey Hive and Wairakei Tourist Park nearby.

Call in to the Wairakei Geothermal Power Station visitor centre
View displays that show how steam is harnessed to generate electricity.

See the new man-made Wairakei Terraces
These cascading silica terraces are beginning to show shades of pink, blue and white like the famous natural terraces that were destroyed by Mt Tarawera’s eruption.

Drive through the Waipahihi Botanic Gardens
Stop off to see the superb native trees, alpine plants, rhododendrons and azaleas.

Visit the Taupo Thermal Resorts
Choose from three options – the AC Baths, Taupo Hot Springs or the Tokaanu Thermal Pools.

Drive to Cherry Island on the Waikato River
Watch the bungy jumpers at river level and then hand feed trout, birds and animals on the island.

Take a lake cruise from the Taupo Boat Harbour
Numerous options include cruising, dining, fishing and exploring Maori rock carvings.

Drive south and follow the road system that encircles Tongariro National Park (the world’s first dual natural and cultural World Heritage area)
Stop off at Whakapapa and enjoy the short tramps to Taranaki Falls and the Silica Springs.

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