Taupo, New Zealand
Taupo is located in the central volcanic zone of the North Island of New Zealand. Taupo is located in an active tectonic zone, with frequent underground magma activity, making geothermal landscapes a common sight.
Here are some travel tips for Taupo, New Zealand:
Natural attractions
- Lake Taupo: The largest lake in New Zealand, where you can walk or jog along the lake and enjoy the beautiful scenery. You can also experience water activities such as water skiing, parasailing, and speed boating, or rent a boat for fishing or sightseeing.
- Huka Falls: Formed by the water of the longest river in New Zealand, the Waikato River, flowing through a narrow and hard volcanic rock gorge, with a large amount of water pouring down every second. You can watch it from the pedestrian bridge or take a jet boat tour for a closer look.
- Orakei Korako Geothermal Park: Only accessible by a short ferry ride across Lake Ohakuri, the park features geysers, hot springs, and bubbling mud springs, offering a unique geothermal spectacle.
Outdoor activities
- Tongariro River Rafting: The river meanders through pristine forests and volcanic areas, with over 60 Class 3 roller coaster rapids, and you may even see blue ducks during the rafting trip.
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Known as New Zealand's best day hike, the 19.5 km trail takes 7-9 hours and offers views of volcanic craters, emerald lakes, and Mount Ngauruhoe.
- Great Lake Trail: You can cycle through the wooded shores of Lake Taupo and enjoy the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park from afar. You can rent a bike or take a shuttle bus to get there.
Cultural and historical attractions
- Taupo Museum: The museum features exhibits on the history and culture of the Taupo region, including traditional Maori crafts and the lives of early European settlers, offering an in-depth look at Taupo's past and present.
- Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings: Carved by Maori carver Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell in the 1970s on the cliffs of Mine Bay on Lake Taupo, the main carving is 14 meters high and depicts Ngatoroirangi, the navigator who brought the Maori to New Zealand in the 13th century. You need to take a boat or kayak to see it.
Special experiences
- Volcanic Wine and Craft Beer Tour: Taupo's volcanic soil and high-altitude volcanic water give local wines, craft beers, and ciders a unique flavor. You can join a tour to taste the deliciousness.
- Visit Huka Honey Hive: New Zealand honey is world-famous, and here you can learn about the benefits of Manuka honey, royal jelly, and bee pollen, and taste honey ice cream and various honey products.