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 koura (crayfish).
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.
You can enjoy fishing charters, scenic boat tours, waterskiing, kayaking, paddle-boarding and the extraordinary Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings. The Great Lake Trails, which are part of Ngā Haerenga - The New Zealand Cycle Trails network, run around the shoreline.
Lake Taupō has a steep drop-off from the shore to an average depth of 100m, and plunges to 186m at its deepest point.
In the mornings Lake Taupo 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.
While Taupo town lakefront and the southern parts near Tokaanu and Tūrangi are popular spots for cruising, fishing and swimming in Lake Taupō. There are hidden gems to discover across this massive and stunning body of water.
Etched between the lakeside settlement of Kinloch, twisting along the Great Lake Trails and onto the shores of Waihaha, are the Western Bays. With ancient volcanic gorges, towering cliffs, majestic waterfalls and vivid blue waters, the Western Bays are a remote but spectacular part of Lake Taupō.
Take a full scenic tour with Venture Beyond - powered by Taxicat or hire a fishing charter to enjoy its secluded fishing spots. You can even book kayaks to get up close and personal with its incredible scenery. However you choose to explore, you'll experience Lake Taupo like never before.
