Taupo

Introducing Taupo

Taupo, located on New Zealand's North Island, sits on the shores of Oceania's largest lake and is a popular tourist destination. Taupo is renowned as an angler's paradise, offering great fishing on its rivers, the world-famous Tongariro River, estuaries, and beaches. Lake Taupo also boasts the world's largest natural trout fishery, with year-round fishing.

In Taupo, restaurants and accommodation abound, there are numerous art and craft galleries, entertainment activities and adventure projects, you can fully experience the fun of skydiving, high-speed rafting and bungee jumping.

Home to New Zealand's largest lake, Lake Taupo, the vast waters of Taupo are ideal for water skiing, windsurfing, and kayaking. The surrounding forests offer a perfect backdrop for hiking and climbing, offering enjoyment for all levels of fitness. The surrounding area is home to unique geothermal features, including numerous luxurious natural hot springs, geothermal hiking trails, boiling mud pools, steam vents, and geysers, making it a prime choice for sightseeing and leisure.

You can also explore the bizarre Orakei Korako Thermal Park, which is full of caves, natural hot springs and boiling mud pools; and Huka Falls, known as one of New Zealand's water wonders .

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Lake Taupo (Huka Falls)

New Zealand's largest lake, also the world's largest volcanic crater lake, is located on some of Lake Taupo's beaches, where visitors can swim and wade in the warm geothermal waters. The waters are moderately warm, making them suitable for swimming in winter. The lake boasts islands, hundreds of inlets, and shallows, and is home to world-renowned rainbow trout fishing. Visitors can rent a boat to fish in the lake or simply enjoy the tranquil scenery.

Huka Falls

The sound of water here is as thunderous as thunder, and the momentum is as great as 220,000 liters of water pouring down from the cliff top every second. Originating from the Waikato River, which is about 100 meters wide, it suddenly narrows to 15 meters after passing through the hard volcanic rock canyon , which increases the pressure of the water flowing into the waterfall, forming a spectacular turbulent spectacle.

Tongariro National Park

With two World Heritage titles, it is home to the majestic Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu volcanoes. Here you can admire the beauty of New Zealand's beech forests and explore traces of ancient volcanic lava flows.

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Taupo

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Taupo is a town located on the shores of Lake Taupo, which was formed by a massive volcanic eruption over 1,800 years ago. The town is significant for its rich Maori history, and the surrounding region has long been a cultural and spiritual center for the Māori people.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Taupo is located on the North Island of New Zealand. You can reach Taupo by car (via SH1) from major cities like Auckland (about 3.5 hours drive) or Wellington (about 4.5 hours drive). There are also buses that connect Taupo with other major towns in New Zealand.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Taupo is an open destination with no specific opening hours for the town itself. The best time to visit is during the summer months (December to February) when the weather is warm, though the spring and autumn seasons also offer great conditions for outdoor activities.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no general entrance fee to visit Taupo, as it is a town. However, activities like visiting Huka Falls or taking a scenic flight will have associated costs. Tickets for such activities can be purchased on-site or online in advance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For popular activities, such as scenic flights or guided tours, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. Booking a few days ahead should be sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To explore the main attractions of Taupo, including the lake, Huka Falls, and nearby parks, you should allocate 1 to 2 days. For a more relaxed trip with additional activities, consider staying for 3-4 days.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights include Lake Taupo, Huka Falls, Tongariro National Park, and the geothermal areas around the town. These natural attractions offer unique experiences like hot spring bathing, hiking, and sightseeing.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for various activities like Huka Falls or a scenic boat tour of Lake Taupo. Tours are typically offered in English. For some activities, audio guides may be available, but availability in other languages is limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Great photography spots include the viewpoint at Huka Falls, the shores of Lake Taupo, and the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. You can also get beautiful shots from a scenic flight over the lake and surrounding mountains.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended route is to start with a visit to Huka Falls, then head to Lake Taupo for activities like fishing or boating. Explore Tongariro National Park for hiking, or relax in the nearby hot springs. A scenic flight over the lake is a great way to end the trip.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

While there are no specific light shows, Taupo offers a variety of evening activities such as stargazing tours and evening boat cruises on Lake Taupo. Some hot springs resorts also have evening hours.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Taupo can get crowded during the summer months (December to February), especially around major events like the Ironman competition. The least crowded times are during the shoulder seasons of spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Taupo offers a variety of facilities including public toilets, cafes, restaurants, shops, and water refill stations. There are also rest areas around the lake and geothermal areas where visitors can relax.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Taupo is relatively accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, especially with wheelchair-accessible paths in some areas. However, some hiking trails in Tongariro National Park may be challenging for those with limited mobility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Most establishments in Taupo accept cards and mobile payments (such as Apple Pay and Google Pay). However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller shops or vendors that may not accept cards.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Taupo has a range of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining. Popular spots include the Bistro Lago, Taupo Thai, and several lakeside cafes offering great views of the lake.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available in Taupo, especially at restaurants and cafes. Some places also offer halal food, but it's best to check ahead for specific requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Taupo offers a wide range of accommodations, including luxury hotels, budget motels, and lakeside resorts. Notable options include the Hilton Lake Taupo, Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs Resort, and several boutique hotels in the town center.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Tongariro National Park, the geothermal area at Wairakei, and the Hobbiton movie set, which is about 1.5 hours away by car. These can all be easily combined into a day trip from Taupo.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are several souvenir shops in Taupo selling items such as Maori-inspired art, jewelry, local wine, and handcrafts. Popular souvenirs include wooden carvings and products made from volcanic rock.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Taupo, you can continue your trip by car or bus to other nearby destinations such as Rotorua or Wellington. There are also bus services connecting Taupo with major towns on the North Island.