TAUPŌ & LAKE TAUPŌ
Taupō is the dynamic heart of New Zealand’s North Island, centered around the colossal Lake Taupō, the Southern Hemisphere’s largest freshwater lake. It’s a land sculpted by volcanic power, offering geothermal wonders and alpine beauty.
This region is a magnet for adventure and tranquility, renowned for world-class trout fishing, dramatic waterfalls, and a geothermal landscape perfect for hiking, biking, and lakeside relaxation.
Most Popular Attractions
Lake & Water Activities
Lake Taupō: The immense, deep-blue heart of the region, perfect for boating, sailing, and scenic cruises.
Māori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay: A magnificent, boat-access-only carving on the lake that is a major cultural and artistic landmark.
Huka Falls: A spectacular natural wonder where the Waikato River thunders through a narrow gorge at an incredible volume.
Tongariro River: Famous globally for its exceptional trout fishing, especially for rainbow and brown trout.
Aratiatia Rapids: A thrilling sight of released water surging through a gorge, requiring careful attention to the dam’s release times.
Taupō Hole in One Challenge: A fun and iconic activity where you attempt to hit a golf ball onto a floating green in the lake.
Kinloch: A charming, quiet lakefront village known for its marina and access to great mountain biking and walking tracks.
Geothermal & Natural Wonders
Craters of the Moon Geothermal Walk: A highly active and accessible thermal area featuring bubbling mud pools and steaming craters.
Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa: Offers natural hot pools and a chance to view silica terraces.
Orakei Korako Geothermal Park & Cave: Often called the “Hidden Valley,” featuring stunning geysers, hot springs, and a geothermal cave (requires a short ferry crossing).
Taupō DeBretts Hot Springs: A popular resort for soaking in mineral-rich thermal pools.
Tongariro National Park: Home to the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing and the three majestic volcanoes: Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Tongariro.
Town Core & Local Culture
Taupō Museum & Art Gallery: Showcases the region’s volcanic history, local Māori culture, and contemporary art.
Lakeside Park & Domain: A central, grassy area on the waterfront perfect for picnics and watching activity on the lake.
Taupō Market (Saturday): A weekly market offering local produce, artisan goods, and food stalls.
Spa Thermal Park: A free-entry public park with natural hot pools where the hot and cold water mix.
Outdoor Adventures & Trails
Great Lake Trail (Mountain Biking): A multi-day mountain bike trail providing stunning lake views, including the famous Headland Loop.
Huka Trails: An extensive network of trails, popular for both walking and cycling, connecting the town to Huka Falls and Wairakei.
Mount Tauhara: A prominent, easily recognizable peak offering a rewarding hike to a summit with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area.
Kārearea (Falcon) Track: A track through native bush and pine forest, offering an excellent view of Huka Falls.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing: A world-renowned 19.4 km hike across a dramatic, volcanic landscape.
Activities & Experiences
Huka Falls Jet Boat Ride: Experience the thrilling power of New Zealand’s most visited natural attraction with a high-speed jet boat ride right up to the spectacular Huka Falls.
Skydiving Over the Lake: Jump from a plane and experience the incredible views of the vast lake, mountains, and surrounding landscape, often hailed as one of the best skydive spots in the world.
Cruise or Kayak to the Māori Rock Carvings: Take a scenic cruise, sailboat, or guided kayak tour to the impressive Ngatoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings, a cultural must-see only accessible by water.
Trout Fishing on Lake Taupō: Hire a charter or guide for a fishing trip on the lake, renowned for its large population of Rainbow and Brown Trout.
Bike the Great Lake Pathway: Cycle or walk along this scenic trail that hugs the lake’s edge, offering stunning views and easy access to beaches and lookouts.
Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Tackle what is consistently ranked as one of the world’s best single-day hikes, famous for its emerald lakes, volcanic peaks, and dramatic landscapes (ensure you are prepared and check weather conditions).
Soak in the Thermal Hot Pools: Relax and rejuvenate in one of the many geothermally heated hot pools, like the Wairakei Terraces or the free Otumuheke Stream at Spa Thermal Park.
Bungy Jump or Swing: Get an adrenaline rush by leaping from a platform over the Waikato River, with various bungy and giant swing options available.
Visit the Craters of the Moon Geothermal Walk: Explore the steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and craters of this unique geothermal area via a well-maintained boardwalk.
Explore the Taupō Museum & Art Gallery: Delve into the local history, culture, and geological story of the region, including the massive eruption that created the lake.
Golf at Kinloch or Wairakei: Play a round at one of the internationally recognized golf courses, enjoying the stunning scenery while you play.
White Water Rafting on the Tongariro River: Join a guided trip for an exciting rafting experience down the pristine waters of the Tongariro River.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Essential for Exploration: While Taupō township is walkable, a rental car is highly recommended to easily access major attractions like the Tongariro Crossing, Huka Falls, and the various hot pools and outlying townships around the lake.
Shuttles for the Tongariro Crossing: If you plan to hike the one-way Tongariro Alpine Crossing, do not rely on your own car. Use one of the dedicated shuttle services which will transport you to the start and pick you up from the end, solving the logistics problem. Book these in advance.
Local Bus Service: There is a limited local bus service (Connectabus) primarily operating within the Taupō town area. It is not suitable for reaching most of the major tourist attractions outside of the immediate town limits.
Airport Transfers: Taupō Airport (TUO) is small and mainly serves domestic routes. Taxis and pre-booked shuttles are the main transport options to and from the town center.
Māori Culture and Respect: Lake Taupō is culturally significant. The Māori Rock Carvings are a sacred place (a wahi tapu), and respect for the land (whenua) and the people (tangata whenua) is paramount. Be mindful of cultural sites and respect local customs.
Lake Size and Geology: Taupō is the largest lake in Australasia, sitting in the caldera of a supervolcano. The eruption that formed it was the most powerful on Earth in the last 5,000 years. The entire region is geothermally active—you may smell the sulfur!
Weather Variability: The Taupō region can experience four seasons in one day, especially on the mountains. If planning outdoor activities like the Tongariro Crossing, always check the forecast on the day and prepare for rain, sun, and cold temperatures regardless of the season.
The Power of Huka Falls: Huka Falls is not tall, but its sheer volume of water (up to 220,000 liters per second) is what makes it so impressive. Always observe all safety warnings, especially near the river banks.
“Kia Ora” (Hello/Welcome): New Zealanders are friendly and appreciate it when visitors use a few basic Māori phrases. Kia Ora is a great one to start with!
Fishing Regulations: If you plan to fish for trout, you must have a valid fishing license. These are easily purchased online or at local sports shops. Rules are strictly enforced.
Hidden Gems:
- Prawn Park (Huka Prawn Park): A unique spot to learn about and catch (and eat!) freshwater prawns, great for a family outing.
- Aratiatia Rapids: Coordinated dam releases turn a calm river into raging rapids for a few minutes each day. Check the official schedule for the spectacular show.
- Taupō Market: Held every Sunday (check location/times), a great place to sample local produce, artisan goods, and food truck fare.
Top Restaurants
Embra [$80-$120] – A bespoke fine-dining restaurant that has quickly earned acclaim for its two-hatted contemporary New Zealand cuisine, blending European techniques with seasonal, local produce in an intimate bungalow setting.
The Brantry Eatery [$40-$70] – Housed in a beautifully restored 1950s home, this award-winning establishment is a local favourite for its inventive seasonal menus, sophisticated cuisine, and relaxed, intimate vibe.
The Bistro [$40-$60] – A relaxed European-style restaurant with a focus on simple, clean flavours from fresh local and seasonal produce, offering European-inspired menus at an affordable price for “the average Kiwi.”
Bistro Lago [$60-$90] – Located in the Hilton Lake Taupō, this stylish, contemporary restaurant offers a flavourful menu with elevated views across Lake Taupō and the mountains, focusing on the best from the land, lake, and ocean.
Huka Lodge [$150-$250] – An exceptional, world-renowned fine-dining experience at the prestigious lodge, featuring daily changing four-course menus of New Zealand’s finest, seasonally-focused, and often sustainably produced ingredients (reservations and dress code apply).
Plateau Bar + Eatery [$35-$55] – A firm local and visitor favourite serving vibrant small plates inspired by the Pacific Rim, alongside contemporary New Zealand mains, all in a lively bar atmosphere.
Vine Eatery & Bar [$35-$55] – A popular spot known for its extensive tapas selection influenced by New Zealand and Mediterranean flavours, making it perfect for sharing in a sophisticated yet relaxed setting.
Edgewater Restaurant [$50-$80] – An elegant lakefront restaurant at the Millennium Hotel with stunning views, known for its award-winning local and international cuisine crafted daily with fresh ingredients.
Roquette Restaurant & Bar [$40-$60] – A high-standard restaurant in the heart of Taupō, offering a modern, global-flair menu that blends comforting favourites like brisket and burgers with contemporary twists.
Tongariro Lodge Restaurant [$60-$90] – Located a short drive away in Tūrangi, this offers gourmet dining in a warm, unique fishing lodge atmosphere, serving the best of New Zealand game and traditional foods.
The Hare & Copper Eatery [$30-$50] – Found south in Tūrangi, this welcoming eatery focuses on seasonal, shared plates with an extensive menu in a relaxed, rustic atmosphere, perfect for groups and families.
Lake Bistro [$30-$50] – Offers small plates, pizzas, and main dishes with an alfresco dining space overlooking the water, making it a great spot for sharing and enjoying a cocktail with a view.
Osteria Cucina Italiana [$30-$50] – A highly-regarded spot offering authentic Italian cuisine, likely to be a local favorite for pasta, pizza, and classic dishes made with care.
Dixie Browns [$25-$45] – One of the most popular restaurants in town, open early through late, with an extensive and diverse menu offering a variety of tasty dishes in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Replete Café & Store [$15-$30] – A long-time local favourite cafe that buzzes with activity, known for its top-notch coffee, inventive cabinet food, fresh baking, and creative seasonal breakfast and lunch plates.
Storehouse [$15-$30] – An industrial-chic cafe known for its hearty, soulful, and seasonal brunch favorites, including a must-try fried chicken and waffles, paired with excellent coffee.
The Cozy Corner [$15-$25] – A perfect spot for a coffee and healthy feed, with an inviting atmosphere and plenty of options for gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, sugar-free, and keto diets.
Waterside Restaurant & Bar [$20-$40] – Offers superb casual dining with an incredible menu of snacks, light meals, mains, and desserts, along with creative cocktails and unique ‘freakshakes,’ all set against breathtaking lake views.
The Steak House Taupo [$40-$70] – Renowned for serving up top-quality steaks since 1984, offering a variety of cuts and options like Porterhouse with Bernaise Sauce or T-Bone with Horseradish Cream.
Sorrento Italian Dining & Wine Bar [$30-$50] – Offers an authentic Italian dining experience in the town center, featuring homemade pasta, pizza, and a wide selection of wine.
Vietnamese Joint Taupō [$15-$30] – The home of authentic Vietnamese street food in Taupō, offering fresh, flavourful, and simple dishes.
Indian Affair Restaurant & Bar [$20-$35] – An award-winning Indian restaurant located in the heart of Taupō’s dining scene, serving authentic Indian cuisine with online ordering and delivery.
Master of India [$20-$35] – Offers a traditional and elegant setting for authentic Indian cuisine, including a good selection of vegan and gluten-free options.
Malabar Nepalese and Indian Kitchen [$20-$35] – A must-visit in the town center for those who enjoy the flavors of both Indian and Nepalese cuisine.
Lotus Thai Restaurant [$20-$35] – Highly recommended for those craving authentic and perfectly spiced Thai cuisine, with an extensive menu of all-time favourites.
Victoria’s Cafe Kitchen Bar [$25-$45] – A chic and family-friendly gastropub with a cosmopolitan ambiance, serving locally sourced cuisine and wines in a friendly, relaxed setting.
The Bay Taupō [$25-$45] – A well-established meeting spot in Acacia Bay emphasizing quality and honesty in their food, popular with locals for a reliable meal.
Mavericks Gastropub [$20-$40] – Where aviation meets gastronomy in a themed pub setting, offering mouth-watering dishes, a vast beer selection, and a popular beer garden with views of mini-golf.
Jolly Good Fellows Restaurant & Bar [$20-$40] – A lakeside classic English pub offering traditional favourites like Bangers and Mash and Beef and Guinness Pasties, along with stunning views.
Mulligans Public House [$20-$40] – A vibrant hub for dining, drinks, and nightly entertainment, offering a pub menu in a lively atmosphere.
The Local Diner – Stag Park [$15-$30] – Taupō’s only American-style diner, offering a unique twist on classic American comfort food.
Pauly’s Diner [$15-$30] – A cozy burger joint run by two brothers, offering a carefully crafted menu of classic and gourmet burgers.
Cafe Baku [$15-$25] – Located on the lakefront, this cafe offers a front-row seat to the lake, serving outstanding coffee, a fresh salad bar, and dreamy baked goods.
Fusion Cafe [$15-$25] – A great spot for a big breakfast in Horomatangi Street, with options for both indoor and outdoor seating.
Roots Waffle Cafe [$10-$20] – Opposite Tongariro Domain, serving super light and fluffy waffles made the authentic Brussels way, perfect with an assortment of toppings.
Baked With Love [$10-$20] – Infamous for its incredible doughnuts and cakes, this spot also has plenty of other incredible cabinet food and menu items.
The Pink Taco [$15-$25] – A popular spot for Mexican street food, offering a vibrant and casual dining experience.
Kai Waho (Maori Cuisine, Cultural & Wilderness Experience) [$100+] – A unique and immersive cultural experience with a traditional culinary pleasure, often involving an authentic hāngī (earth oven) meal in a stunning, remote wilderness setting (booking essential, prices vary).
Huka Prawn Park Restaurant [$25-$45] – Part of a unique foodie experience where visitors can catch their own prawns in geothermally heated pools, which can then be cooked for them at the restaurant.
Crafty Trout Brewery [$20-$40] – A place to enjoy craft beer and a casual menu, perfect for those interested in local brewing and a relaxed, fun atmosphere.
L’Arte Cafe and Gallery [$15-$25] – A visual and edible feast, set in a beautifully landscaped garden where you can enjoy a bite to eat and browse an array of crafts and collectibles.
Lava Glass Cafe [$15-$25] – A cafe experience turned arty, with an extensive menu, comfortable couches, a glass-blowing gallery, and an outdoor glass sculpture garden, sometimes allowing views of artists at work.
Two Mile Bay Sailing Club [$15-$30] – Offers simple fare like pizza and drinks in a fantastic spot right on stunning Lake Taupō, unbeatable on a hot, still day.
Portofino [$35-$55] – A reliable and decent option for Italian cuisine, likely a local favourite for a classic, quality meal.
The Merchant of Taupō [$30-$50] – Likely a contemporary restaurant offering modern New Zealand cuisine with a focus on seasonal and local produce, a strong competitor in the mid-range dining scene.
Lake Taupō Hole In One Challenge Cafe & Bar [$15-$25] – A casual spot linked to the iconic golf challenge, offering simple cafe fare and drinks in a fun, high-traffic location.
Rose Garden Chinese Restaurant [$20-$35] – A well-regarded option for Chinese cuisine, popular for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Suncourt Indian Taupo [$20-$35] – Another excellent choice for authentic Indian cuisine, located in the heart of Taupō.
The Cozy Corner Diner [$15-$30] – A great spot for a relaxed meal, focusing on comfort food and a friendly atmosphere.
The Bach [$30-$50] – Likely a modern New Zealand-style cafe or eatery with a relaxed, beach-house-inspired atmosphere (a “bach” is a Kiwi holiday home), offering quality, casual food.
The Landing Restaurant [$35-$55] – Situated at a lakeside or marina spot, offering quality dining with good views, likely focusing on fresh seafood and local produce.
Victoria’s Kitchen Bar [$25-$45] – Offers a warm, relaxed dining environment with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and modern New Zealand cuisine.
The Good Spot [$15-$25] – A casual eatery or cafe, often favoured by locals for a quick, quality, and consistently good meal or coffee.
The Thirsty Weta Bar & Eatery [$20-$40] – A gastropub offering a hearty menu and a selection of local beers, perfect for a casual evening meal.
The Village Chippy [$10-$20] – A classic New Zealand fish and chips shop, perfect for a budget-friendly and authentic takeaway meal by the lake.
Koffee King [$5-$15] – A local spot famous for its coffee and quick bites, often a morning ritual for residents.
The Great Lake Eatery [$25-$45] – Focuses on providing a wide range of crowd-pleasing dishes with a strong emphasis on the use of fresh, local ingredients, reflecting the lake environment.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Deck: Found on Tongariro Street, this spot on the lakefront (above Waterside Restaurant) offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Taupō and the mountains. It’s known for its Instagram-worthy cocktails, fusion drinks, and a lively atmosphere perfect for sunset drinks.
Plateau Bar + Eatery: Located in the heart of the Taupō town centre, this award-winning establishment offers a sophisticated ambiance and a fantastic selection of craft beers, boutique wines, and a drinks menu complemented by exciting Polynesian-inspired cuisine.
Vine Eatery & Bar: Situated on Tūwharetoa Street, this popular wine bar provides a cozy and stylish setting, featuring chandeliers made from wine glasses. It boasts a selection of over 150 wines, local craft beers, and inventive cocktails, paired with Mediterranean tapas and New Zealand fine dining.
Jimmy Coops Lakehouse: A lakefront favorite on Roberts Street, this venue is the home of Lakeman Craft Beer but also features a dedicated cocktail menu, like the “Jimmy’s Figgy Espresso Martini.” It offers a casual atmosphere with great lake views from its courtyard.
Lakefront Bar (Millennium Hotel Taupō): Located on Lake Terrace, this hotel bar provides a charming setting right on the water. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy signature cocktails, beers on tap, and bar snacks while watching the sun set over the lake.
The Brantry Eatery: While primarily a fine dining restaurant in a refurbished 1950s townhouse, this establishment is renowned for its modern New Zealand flavors and offers a carefully curated drink list, including a selection of sophisticated cocktails in a relaxed, stylish environment.
Jolly Good Fellows: An English-style pub on Roberts Street with lashings of colonial charm. It offers a great selection of New Zealand craft beers and boasts an outdoor area with stunning lake views, providing a relaxed spot for a pint or a simple cocktail.
Rosemary’s Pub: Located on Tūwharetoa Street, this is a self-proclaimed dive bar and music venue that surprisingly lists craft cocktails alongside its cold beer and loud music. It’s the go-to spot for classic rock, punk, and live Kiwi anthems.
D Bar: Found on Tūwharetoa Street, this spot is part of the lively central bar scene and is a great option for a vibrant atmosphere and socializing with friends.
Mavericks Gastropub: Situated in the town centre, this gastropub combines aviation themes with gastronomy. While known for its vast beer selection and food, it also offers a full bar service, making it a good all-rounder for a night out.
Crafty Trout Brewing: A unique venue in the town centre for beer lovers, offering a range of house-brewed craft beers in a convivial atmosphere with German-inspired music and décor. They also serve simple drinks in large “jugs.”
Finn’s Bistro and Beer Garden: Located on Tūwharetoa Street, this popular spot offers a relaxed indoor-outdoor setting with a broad menu and a great beer garden, perfect for a lively drink with friends.
The Shed: Also on Tūwharetoa Street, this bar is part of the central strip of nightlife venues, known for providing a casual atmosphere for a pre-club drink or a relaxed evening out.
Mulligans Public House: Situated on Tongariro Street, this vibrant Irish pub is a hub for dining, drinks, and nightly entertainment, including quiz nights and live music.
The Dance Club: Located on Tūwharetoa Street, this is Taupō’s most prominent dedicated nightclub. It is a beacon for party-goers, known for its spacious dance floor, pulsating beats, diverse music (contemporary hits to classic dance tracks), and well-stocked bar with signature cocktails.
Vertigo: Another venue located on Tūwharetoa Street, which is a key area for Taupō’s late-night offerings. It operates as a nightclub, providing a lively spot to enjoy music and dancing late into the night.
Voodoo Lounge: A venue mentioned in local event listings for hosting ‘Open Decks’ and parties, indicating it functions as a late-night music and club space.
Rosemary’s Pub: While listed as a pub, its commitment to loud music, late hours, and hosting live bands that “tear up the stage” makes it function as a high-energy music club for rock and punk fans in the Taupō town centre.
The Shed: Due to its location within the main strip and its late-night presence, it often transitions into a more club-like atmosphere, popular with both locals and visitors looking for a high-energy end to the evening.