January 13, 2023, 4:49 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Taupo is located inland on New Zealand’s North Island and is worth a visit for its stunning scenery at Lake Taupo and the surrounding volcanic landscape. Our author Anna Wengel (now Chiodo) was there and compiled a list of tips, which she recorded in a podcast.
A vast sparkling lake, framed by green forested mountains and mist-covered volcanic peaks, is the backdrop before the town of Taupo in the center of New Zealand’s North Island.
Travel blogger Coco (kleinstadtcoco) offers more tips and inspiration about Taupo in the following podcast episode of In 5 Minutes Around the World:
Overview
7 Tips for Taupo
Lake Taupo
Lake Taupo is a highlight in or rather near the town of Taupo. At 616 square kilometers, it is New Zealand’s largest lake—by comparison, Lake Taupo is slightly larger than Madrid. It is surrounded by mountains and volcanoes and was formed by a volcanic eruption 26,500 years ago. Today, nearly 24,000 people live in Taupo, many by the lake, and some spend their retirement there. It also attracts numerous tourists to Taupo and Lake Taupo. There are all kinds of activities such as jet skiing, boating, fishing, sailing, etc. And the lake itself is a beautiful backdrop, making it worth the trip.
Volcanic Landscape Craters of the Moon
The Craters of the Moon reserve is one of the landscapes near Taupo that you should see. As the name suggests, it’s a volcanic landscape resembling a lunar crater landscape, with plenty of barren rock and steam rising from the ground.
Huka Falls
Also worth visiting is the waterfall known as Huka Falls. The waterfall itself, along with its river of rushing water, is impressive. There are also beautiful hiking trails around it. However, expect many tourists. Huka Falls is a very popular highlight in the area.
Restaurants with Lake Views
Not surprisingly, most restaurants are located at or near the lake. The town of Taupo borders directly on Lake Taupo, and you’ll definitely find something around and on the promenade if you want to dine out. The offerings range from typical New Zealand dishes to Asian, Italian, and more.
Expect Higher Prices
Taupo is a well-visited tourist destination, so everything is geared toward tourists—including the prices. For reference, hotel, motel, or lodge stays cost between 34 and 272 euros, with the average being around 85 euros per night. Dining options range from fast food to fine dining, and prices are generally higher. For example, a burger in a regular diner starts at 15 NZ dollars, while in a more upscale restaurant, you might pay nearly the same for garlic bread.
Stay by the Lake
Those looking to stay in hotels, motels, and the like will find various options, many near the water. I traveled in my van and parked right by the water, which was beautiful and one of the best spots I found in New Zealand. However, be cautious in Taupo, as it’s almost never allowed. There are camping, van, and motorhome sites, some right by the water, but they can be booked up. If you can’t find anything directly in Taupo, you can drive a bit further around the lake.
Also interesting: In a Van Through New Zealand – 5 Tips for the Perfect Road Trip
Definitely Drive South of Taupo
I’ve already raved about this in my New Zealand Road Trip article and I’ll do it again here: I think there are two great routes that you should definitely take. Both go from Taupo to the south—though you can reverse it, going from the south to Taupo. One route goes up and down through the Tongariro and Whanganui National Parks. You’ll rumble for hours over gravel roads, past deep gorges and scattered, sometimes dilapidated yet inhabited farms, and of course, without cell service. The other route is the highway through the Rangipo Desert, which reminded me partly of the Outback and partly of the Mojave Desert. You’ll drive for what feels like an eternity through steppe-like flatlands, past volcanoes and military training grounds. Those driving from the north to Taupo will also have a nice journey, but I recommend these two southern routes a bit more.