Lake Taupo

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Lake Taupo

In the centre of the North Island lies New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake, Lake Taupo, covering an area of some 616 square kilometres. Lake Taupo is the site of a huge volcanic eruption which took place in 186 AD – this is known fact as the eruption was so huge that molten ash was thrown high into the atmosphere and created visible effects around the globe that were experienced and recorded by both Chinese and Roman peoples! Scientists believe it may well have been the world's largest ever eruption.


The Tongariro group of volcanic mountains are still “active” today with steaming mountainsides, and threatening lahar (or volcanic mud) flows. Around the area there are numerous examples of geysers, boiling lakes and bubbling mudpools, for those who never visited a volcanic region before this experience is truly spectacular. The Karapiti and Orahei Korako Thermal Park are two of the best places to enjoy these natural wonders.


This part of the north island is rich in history, and proud of it’s early Maori connection and enduring culture. The first Maori arrived in the 13th Century and were descendants of those who came to New Zealand on Arawa (one of the early waka used by the migratory Maori). In 1830 the first Europeans arrived and thiese would have included missionaries, geologists, traders and farming settlers. By 1890 the township of Taupo was established, and with road access began to thrive. In the 20th Century the geothermal potential of the area became important, as did forestry and tourism. Indeed hereabouts (at Kaiangaroa) is the largest man made forest in the world.

There are numerous opportunities for the visitor to experience the history and culture as they travel the region including witnessing a kappa haka (Maori ceremonial dance), or enjoying a hangi (Maori traditional food), or visiting local art and craft galleries and museums. This area also offers some thrilling adventure experiences, including the great Huka Falls jet boat rides!

Taupo (the township) is located on the north eastern shores and has a population of around 30,000 although this will swell several times over in the summer tourist season. Taupo is a focal point for the central north island and is well connected to it’s near neighbour Rotorua (1 hour drive via State Highway 1), to Auckland (4 hours drive), Napier (via SH5 some 2 hours) and the capital Wellington (just over 5 hours). Taupo also has an airport which connects to the New Zealand domestic network.

Taupo is a great centre for all the region's attractions whether it is the Huka falls, or Aratiatia Rapids, trout fishing , thermal pools, golf or adventure sports. But do take time to enjoy the town itself, it has a beautiful lakeside location and a must do is to buy fish and chips and eat them al fresco on the waterfront gazing out onto the lake, and the volcano mountains beyond!

At the south eastern corner of the lake is the small settlement of Turangi. It’s importance is twofold: firstly as an advance base for all things outdoor within the Tongariro National Park, and secondly for the high quality trout fishing it provides in the Tongariro River. Indeed this place is becoming the Trout Fishing capital, and now even boasts an indoor National Trout Centre. Based in Turangi the visitor is able to sample the fly fishing, go kayaking, bushwalking and trekking. Or for something special take to the Tongariro River in a white water raft, and follow the river as it plunges through narrow gorges, over rapids, and passed stunning scenery on it's way from the Waikato falls towards a calmer finish near Lake Taupo.

This region is also becoming known for it's annual sporting events such as: International Ironman, Great Lake Cycle Challenge (160 kilometers around the Lake), Great lake walking & running relay, Trailwalker event, Half Marathon, Mountain biking events, and more!

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