Things To Do
in Taupo
Taupo, New Zealand sits on the edge of the country’s largest lake, offering breathtaking lake and mountain scenery. The town is a hub for outdoor adventures, geothermal wonders, and easy access to Tongariro National Park. Visitors enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, and panoramic viewpoints around the lakefront and nearby falls.
With welcoming locals, a relaxed pace, and plenty of fresh air, Taupo makes a superb base for exploration in the central North Island.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Taupo and check into your accommodation. Take a relaxing stroll along the shoreline of Lake Taupo, soaking in the stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Consider renting a kayak to explore the gem-like islands dotting the azure waters.
Enjoy lunch at a lakeside café before embarking on a scenic cruise to see the famous Maori rock carvings. On your cruise, learn about the cultural significance of the carvings while enjoying the fresh air and panoramic views. Stop for swimming or fishing, making the most of your time on the water.
Dine at one of Taupo's renowned restaurants overlooking the lake. Savor local cuisine, ideally with a glass of New Zealand wine, as you watch the sunset paint the sky in hues of pink and orange. End your day with a leisurely walk along the waterfront, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out for some skydiving over Lake Taupo. Experience the thrill of freefalling from 15,000 feet and take in breathtaking aerial views of the shimmering lake and Taupo region. This adrenaline-pumping experience is sure to get your heart racing.
After your skydiving adventure, refuel with lunch at a local café and then visit the Taupo Hot Springs to relax. Immerse yourself in the soothing geothermal pools surrounded by lush gardens, perfect for unwinding after the morning's excitement. Alternatively, visit Huka Falls for a quick photo opportunity and a short hike along the trails.
Experience the vibrant local nightlife at popular bars and pubs in Taupo. Engage with locals and fellow travelers over drinks while enjoying live music and a welcoming atmosphere. If you prefer a quieter evening, consider booking a night-time stargazing tour to witness the stunning clarity of the southern hemisphere skies.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $4-5 |
| 🛏️Hotel/night | $120-250 |
| 🚆Local transit / taxi | $10-25 |
| 🍺Beer (pint) | $7-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning lake and mountain scenery
- Wide range of outdoor activities and easy day trips to geothermal areas
- Relaxed, friendly town with excellent access to Tongariro National Park
- Good base for year-round exploration and short travel to other North Island highlights
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal weather can be changeable; plan for varied conditions
- Some attractions require a car or guided tour for access
- Popular day trips to Tongariro can be long and physically demanding
- "Kia ora" - Hello / Thank you
- "Tēnā koe" - Hello (to one person)
- "Ka pai" - Good / Well done
- "Aroha mai" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Haere mai" - Welcome / Come in
- "Ngā mihi" - Thanks / Kind regards
- "Kei te pēhea koe?" - How are you?
- "Nau mai" - Welcome (to a place)
Places to Visit in Taupo
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic, high-volume waterfall with a powerful turquoise plunge; best for early morning light or golden hour shots.
Long, tranquil lakefront with wide horizons; ideal for sunrise and sunset photography with reflections on calm days.
Watch the dam release create foaming rapids and spray, offering dynamic, action-filled shots at scheduled times.
Striking silica terraces and steam vents framed by lush scenery—great for close-ups and wide landscape photos.
Alpine vistas and dramatic volcanic scenery; ideal for panoramic shots if you take a guided day trip.
Food in Taupo
Taupo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught trout from Lake Taupo, often prepared simply grilled or pan-seared, available at many lakefront restaurants.
Must-Try!
Maori-style slow-cooked meats and vegetables offered in cultural experiences or themed menus.
New Zealand lamb prepared with native herbs; a common dish at bistros and pubs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market featuring fresh produce, crafts, and street-style bites near the town center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting such as 'Kia ora' is appreciated; please use respectful language with locals and elders.
Respect sacred sites; ask for permission before taking photos where culturally sensitive; listen politely during cultural experiences.
NZers value cleanliness and courtesy; keep dogs on-leash in most urban areas and pick up after pets where required.
Safety
Tipping in Taupo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not expected in New Zealand; some restaurants may add a service charge. If service is excellent, a small tip is appreciated but not required.
Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, EFTPOS), contactless payments, and some cash options are widely accepted. Most places are capable of processing NZD.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, warm days ideal for lake activities, hiking, and outdoor dining; expect light evening breezes and occasional rain.
Crisp mornings and pleasant daytime temperatures; fall colors around the hills and lake create great photo opportunities.
Coolers temps; nearby Mt Ruapehu offers skiing and snow-play; expect shorter days and crisp, clear air.
Milder weather, blooming native plants, and active wildlife; great for outdoor explorations and waterfalls after spring rains.
Taupo at Night
Hiking in Taupo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A renowned full-day hike through volcanic terrain with dramatic views; suitable for experienced hikers when weather is clear.
A moderate hike offering panoramic views over Taupo and the lake; accessible for many visitors.
Scenic forested trail with views of the lake and surrounding hills, suitable for a half-day hike.
Network of easy-to-moderate walks around the western lake edge with varied viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Taupo by plane.
Close to town; handles domestic flights and provides convenient connections to Auckland and Wellington via scale-adjusted services.
A larger regional hub about 1–1.5 hours away by road, with more frequent domestic connections and broader schedules.
NZ’s largest international hub; a longer drive or domestic connection away, and a common entry point for international travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, and seasonal workers who support local businesses and tourism.
Steady flow of domestic and international visitors drawn to the lake, geothermal sites, and nearby national park.
Active presence in the region with cultural heritage and events intertwined with local experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Lake Taupo is renowned for trout fishing; popular among locals and visitors alike.
Boating, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding on the lake.
Scenic golf courses around Taupo with views of the lake and surrounding hills.
In winter, access to Mt Ruapehu for skiing and snowboarding is a major draw.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Taupo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Taupo restaurants offer vegetarian options; try vegetable-focused mains or salads, and ask for plant-based substitutions if needed.