Taupo sits on the shore of Lake Taupo in the centre of the North Island, making Taupo a super base for visiting the Great Lake Taupo area or for exploring the southern Waikato region in your rental car. Hit the road to experience some of these great attractions or head further a field on a road trip.
Taupo Attractions
Your first stop would be to explore Lake Taupo. The size of Singapore, the lake is the largest by surface area in New Zealand and is the largest fresh water lake in Australasia so it is worth the experience. For water lovers, sailing, kayaking, swimming or para sailing could be on your to do list, as well as trout fishing in one of the region’s rivers.
If relaxation is more your thing, Taupo is located at the centre of an area of volcanic and geothermal activity and there are a number of natural hot springs in the area ideal for soaking away your troubles.
Taupo Road Trips
From Lake Taupo, take a short 5 minute drive north to Huka Falls, one of the most photographed attractions in New Zealand. See one of the great natural wonders of the world in action and witness around 220,000 litres per second of water pouring over the cliff face that rushes under a pedestrian bridge and then bursts out of its rapids, over the 11 metre falls, and back into the Waikato River. Get up close with an unforgettable jet boat adventure or enjoy one of the many walks or mountain bike trails.
From here, head 40 minutes south and spend a day or two at Turangi. This township is situated on the banks of the Tongariro River which offers a range of water based activities and excellent fly fishing. Tongariro National Park is now a World Heritage area and the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is regarded as one of the best one-day walks in the world. From herb fields to forests, from tranquil lakes to desert-like plateau and active volcanoes, Tongariro has them all. The surrounding countryside offers challenging hunting, fishing, mountain biking, hiking and bush walks, white water rafting, and kayaking. You may also explore Kaimanawa Forest Park, and Pureroa Forest Park or in winter drive 40 minutes to the Whakapapa ski area at Mount Ruapehu. Several small picturesque settlements are close by as well as delightfully situated villages.
Head 70 kilometers north from Turangi and arrive at Mangakino. Surrounded by rolling farmland and native forests, it is a superb location for a relaxed weekend. You can also enjoy hiking, biking, water sports or tranquil forest walks. Visit beautiful Lake Maraetai, catch some trout or take a scenic paddleboat ride. You can also bike the River Trail or play a round of golf.
Taupo Travel
Getting around Taupo is easy with a rental car and there are plenty of options for you to choose from.
New Zealand Rent A Car has car rental locations throughout New Zealand and the North Island, including a handy Taupo car rental depot, offering a wide range of reliable affordable rental cars to suit all budgets.
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Taupo: Top 5 Tourist Attractions
