Taupo
The Lake Taupo region has some of the countries finest untouched, uncrowded and unique landscapes dominated by the mountains and the lake. The lake itself was created by the most violent volcanic explosion the world has seen in the last 5000 years.
Today Lake Taupo is the largest fresh water lake in Australasia and is home to a bountiful trout population. There are 47 rivers and streams feeding the lake with only one outlet, the Waikato river. Try some of the best trout fishing on the globe, experience a real New Zealand adventure and hire a guide to explore some of the crystal clear streams and rivers of the region.
Tongariro World Heritage National Park is home to three magnificent volcanoes Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe (easily recognised by film fans as “Mt Doom” in the Lord of the Rings”). View these impressive mountains from above on a scenic flight or get up close and personal on what is considered one of the best one day hikes in New Zealand, the 17km Tongariro Crossing.
Throughout winter Mt Ruapehu's award winning Turoa and Whakapapa ski areas open. Ski a combined 1800 hectares of groomed snow, or go off trail on guided heliskiing experience.
All year round the lake is a focus for water activities, watersking, parasailing, float plane flights, jet boating, white water rafting, kayaking, jet skiing and skydiving. Taupo town is on the edge of the lake offering all these activities and more. Head inland for 4x4 motor biking, horse trekking, bungy jumping, rock climbing and abseiling.
If you are more interested in relaxing and reviving, take the chance to enjoy the ultimate health spa experience in the natural mineral waters.
Just minutes north of Taupo is Wairakei Terraces with boiling mud pools, thermal valleys and steaming geysers plus brilliantly coloured silica terraces as well as the traditional Maori cultural activities and experiences.
Taupo is also home to some world-renowned golf courses on which to improve your game … as long as you can hold your concentration in these stunning surroundings.
