Taupo

Located on the northern shores of Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake, the township of Taupo affords spectacular views across the water towards the snow capped peaks of Tongariro National Park. Lovely cafes, restaurants, shops, local crafts and a range of activities for young and old, make this picturesque township one of the most popular holiday destinations in New Zealand. The lake is great for swimming, waterskiing, sailing, cruising, parasailing and, most notably, trout fishing. Fishing charters are available year round and the Wairakei International Golf Course provides18 holes. Near by is Huka Falls, where the Waikato River is forced through a narrow chasm to create this magnificent spectacle. Thrill seekers will relish jet boating and bungy jumping over the Waikato River.

Created by a major volcanic eruption, Lake Taupo is surrounded by geothermal activity. Walk around the lake to find hot springs, or observe boiling mud pools along the Crater of the Moon walk, and geysers, mud volcanoes and silica terraces at the Oraki Korako Geyserland. The Wairakei Geothermal Visitor Information Centre presents information on the Wairakei and Ohaaki geothermal power schemes, and the Taupo Volcanic Zone. At the geothermal Prawn Park hatchery, you can see the prawn breeding program before dining in the restaurant.

Special Events
January
Moana Park Wine Tasting
Taupo Flying Proms
March
Premier Championship Race Series