Taupo

Taupo, a town on New Zealand's North Island, sits on the shores of Lake Taupo, the country's largest lake. The area has significant geothermal activity, including steaming craters and bubbling mud pools. At Mine Bay, you can see Maori rock carvings by boat. The Huka Falls showcase the power of the Waikato River. You can fish for trout in the clear waters or try activities like skydiving, bungee jumping, and white-water rafting.

Exploring Lake Taupo

Lake Taupo formed from a massive volcanic eruption. You can take a cruise to see the Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay, which are only accessible by water. These 14-meter high sculptures were carved in the 1970s and depict Ngatoroirangi, a Maori navigator. For a more active experience, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lake's calm bays and inlets at your own pace.

Geothermal Attractions

Taupo sits within a volcanic zone, resulting in several geothermal sites. At Craters of the Moon, you can walk among steaming vents and bubbling mud pools on raised boardwalks. Orakei Korako, nicknamed the "Hidden Valley," has colorful silica terraces, geysers, and a rare geothermal cave. These sites show how volcanic activity continues to shape the landscape.

High-Energy Activities

Taupo has many options if you're seeking an adrenaline rush. You can try tandem skydiving with views of the lake and surrounding mountains. For a water-based thrill, go jet boating on the Waikato River, where drivers navigate narrow gorges and perform 360-degree spins. You can also bungee jump at a site overlooking the Waikato River.

Huka Falls and Hiking Trails

At Huka Falls, the Waikato River narrows to just 15 meters wide. Over 220,000 liters of water per second flow over the 11-meter drop. You can view the falls from several platforms or take a walking trail along the river. For a longer hike, try the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a challenging day walk. The trail passes through volcanic terrain with emerald lakes and wide views of the surrounding area.

Fishing and Hot Springs

You can fish for rainbow and brown trout in Lake Taupo and the surrounding rivers. Fish from the shore or take a guided boat trip to find productive spots. After a day of activities, soak in one of Taupo's natural hot springs. DeBretts Hot Springs has pools of varying temperatures, water slides, and private pools for a more secluded experience.

Local Food and Drink

Taupo's restaurants serve local produce and New Zealand specialties. You can eat fresh trout at lakeside restaurants or visit the Huka Prawn Park to catch and eat your own prawns. The region also produces wine, craft beer, and honey. At the Huka Honey Hive, you can taste and learn about different types of honey, including Manuka honey.

Getting There and When to Visit

You can reach Taupo by car, about 3.5 hours drive from Auckland or 5 hours from Wellington. Alternatively, fly to Taupo Airport, which has connections to Auckland and Wellington. The town receives visitors year-round. Summer (December to February) is the busiest season with warm weather ideal for water activities. In winter (June to August), you can ski at nearby Mount Ruapehu.