Taupo, a world-renowned town on New Zealand’s North Island, is famed for its untouched natural landscape. Strategically situated by Lake Taupo, a volcanic caldera, it is not only a geothermal wonder, but also offers a vast array of water-based activities that will definitely keep visitors occupied. We recommend taking a rental car and exploring the beautiful Taupo.
The town of Taupo perches at the rim of Australasia’s largest lake – the majestic Lake Taupo. Originally a massive volcano with a fiery history, it now lies dormant with its last eruption in 181 AD. The super volcano also plays a precious cultural role in ancient Maori history, for legend says that it’s the pulsating heart of the North Island. The lake is very accessible as it is located just on the outskirts of the town, so travel by rental car from Taupo will be easy. Popular Lake Taupo activities include trout fishing and cruises.
We strongly recommend visiting Huka Falls. Originating from Waikato River, New Zealand’s longest river, the river width narrows sharply right before Huka Falls as it enters a shallow ravine of volcanic rock. This causes the previously placid waters to roar and churn as they rumble through the ravine at breakneck speed before bursting out over the Falls. The immense amount of water crashes 11 metres down into a swirling pool beneath. Visitors who wish to get a close up look at this magnificent display of Nature’s raw power and strength can cross the footbridge positioned right above the falls. It puts you in prime position to witness the gallons of water blasting by at top speed. Jet boat rides or river cruises are also available for those who want to get even closer to plunging falls. Only a 20-minute drive from Taupo Airport, the journey to Huka Falls by rental car should be a breeze. The build up to the falls can be hiked on foot. The Spa Parks to Huka Falls trail is an hour long and follows the still tranquil and wide river. The trek snakes through exotic and lush native forests, surely an eye opener for tourists who are used to concrete jungles. Vantage points are also dotted throughout the trail, offering spectacular panoramas of the verdant greenery. The Huka Falls car park is around 1.6 kilometres north of Taupo, and is easily accessible by rental car.
For those interested in the native Maori culture, they can kayak or take a boat tour around the Western bay of Lake Taupo to admire the huge Maori rock carving at Mine Bay. Carved painstakingly by the late master carver Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell, the main carving took four summers to compete and looms over 10 metres high. The carvings are an iconic cultural attraction for both locals and tourists alike, and symbolise how Maori knowledge and skills are passed down from generation to generation. Although the carvings are only accessible by boat, Mine Bay is located 19 kilometres away from Taupo Airport, making travel there by rental car convenient.
Taupo is the most beautiful town in the region, with its amazingly pristine panoramas, making it the perfect destination to take a road trip in your rental car to. A journey there is likened to jumping into the lush embrace of Mother Nature and is the ultimate relaxing experience that you will not regret.
