Most days, the lake is beautifully calm, but its creation was one of the most spectacularly violent natural events in history. The gigantic Oruanui eruption, 27,000 years ago, shot volcanic debris 50km into the air, covered the North Island in a thick layer of volcanic ash, and created the caldera that is now the lake.
Lake Taupō
At the heart of New Zealand’s central volcanic plateau sits the largest freshwater lake in Australasia, Lake Taupō. This huge, shining expanse of water, moving between aquamarine blue and jade green, is crystal-clear to a depth of 13 metres. It is home to one of the best wild trout fisheries in the world, more than 30 species of water bird, several types of native fish and native kōura (crayfish).
You can enjoy fishing charters, scenic boat tours, waterskiing, kayaking, paddle-boarding and the extraordinary Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay. The Great Lake Trail which is part of Nga Haerenga - The New Zealand Cycle Trail runs around the shoreline.
In the mornings Lake Taupō can be shrouded in mist, which usually rolls back by midday to reveal the sparkling waters beneath.
The surface of the lake is often dotted with pale balls of pumice, a volcanic rock so light it floats on water.
Things to do: Lake Taupō
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Lake Taupō map
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Waikato River
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Huka Falls
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