Located on New Zealands' North Island, Taupo is the a holiday destination that offers something for everyone. Experience skiing on a volcano, catching a trout, swimming in a clear lake, walking in native bush, jet boating adrenaline rush, or simply soaking in a geothermal pool....
Getting in and around Taupo
Taupo Airport
Located only 8 kilometres from the town centre, handles daily flights operated by Air New Zealand to and from the main domestic and international gateways of Auckland and Wellington. Direct flights are 45-55 minutes in duration.
Taupo Transport
Prefer to drive and take in the scenery? Great choice.... being situated on the crossroads of State Highway 1 and the Thermal Explorer Highway (State Highway 5), this stunning lakeside town is easy to find and only a few hours from Auckland or Wellington (depending upon the route you take and how many cafe or winery stops you make!)
If you prefer to sit back, relax and take in the scenery by coach, due to the central North Island position there are regular scheduled coach services available.
Taupo Car Hire
Hiring a car in Taupo is easy to do. You will find car rental companies across the town.
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Taupo accommodation
Taupo is truly a place that you will want to stop and stay for a few days and you can experience hospitality and accommodation ranging from backpacker hostels to luxurious lodges.
| Luxury |
- Tongariro Lodge is one of the worlds greatest fishing lodges, located on the banks of Tongariro River. Experience fine accommodation and gourmet dining. Also popular corporate or wedding retreat.
- Huka Lodge Offering elagance and luxury this lodge is just what you are looking for.
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| Mid-range |
- Copthorne Hotel is perfectly situated within minutes of the town centre and airport, with a restaurant overlooking the magnificent Lake Taupo and the volcanic mountains beyond.
- Wairakei Resort has the utmost standard of comfort for all levels of accommodation. Wairakei Resorts 169 acres surround a fantastic variety of recreation and relaxation facilities such as a 9-hole golf course, 2 outdoor heated pools, 6 spa pools, two floodlit tennis courts, onsite beauty and massage therapy clinic, gym, sauna and squash courts.
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| Budget |
- Astro Motel is a new concept of compact accommodation, offering a wide range of 20 affordable rooms/units in new clean facilities ranging from self-contained units sleeping 2-4, twin and single studios and two 6 beds dorm rooms with own bathroom.
- Base Taupo was designed with the traveller in mind, boasting an ideal location right in the centre of town, superior facilities, comfy beds and great value for money.
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| Backpackers |
- YHA Taupo Located just 3 blocks back from the lakefront, bus station, bars and cafes, this purpose built back packers offers private rooms, ensuite rooms, shared rooms and tent sites.
- Taupo Urban Retreat Centrally located, only a block and a half away from the lakefront, bars, cafes and restaurants and facilities like supermarket, shops, bus station, etc.
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Things to do in Taupo
Taupo Museum home of the Pure Ora Garden (Garden of Wellbeing) which won gold at the Chelsea Flower Show in London and is based around a Maori Legend about mythical guardians of the land.
Huka Prawn Park is an interesting insight into the life of the prawn. Enjoy fun and relaxing activities or dine on home grown prawns in the amazing riverside restaurant.
Taupo Jet-boating is another fun-filled family experience with giddying spins and high speedy adrenaline rush, while setting your eyes on some of the most beautiful landscapes from the Waikato River.
Taupo Bungy. Take the plunge just minutes from town in the Waikato River Valley.
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Day trips in and around Taupo
Huka Falls is just 3 kilometres North of Taupo these are the largest waterfalls on the Waikato River and NZ's most visited natural attraction.
AC Baths. Whatever the weather this is a fun place for the whole family. Take a dip in the thermally heated pools, relax in the indoor/outdoor pool, or ride the hydroslides.
Trout Fishing is great all year round, Trout fishing on the Tongariro River is a great sport. Hook up with a fly-fishing guide and they will have you hooked up with a fish on your first day. The local restaurants will even cook your own catch of the day for you to enjoy!
Guided Treks. Be informed of the culture, history, flora and fauna by taking a guided tour through this region.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a little Further afield, this 19.4km, 7 to 8 hour day journey is a must-experience while visiting Tongariro National Park during summer or spring.
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