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North Island winter holidays

From late May right through to October, as winter snow blankets the mountains and the days turn cold with azure blue skies, Taupo becomes the ultimate alpine holiday destination - offering many of the North Island’s must-see sights and NZ winter activities and attractions.

Taupo has the perfect winter escape waiting for every type of holiday-maker – whether it’s a romantic weekend ski break, a week of relaxing down-time, a family winter holiday or midweek escape from work – some of the most beautiful and exciting North Island attractions can be found in Taupo.

You will find some of the North Island’s best things to do during winter right here – from thermal hot pools in beautiful natural settings, to stunning walks, Maori experiences, art and culture, boutique shopping, excellent places to eat and boat cruises on Lake Taupo. And of course the region is central to three New Zealand ski resorts (Whakapapa, Turoa and Tukino).

Have some little ones getting cabin fever as the cold sets in? Planning the perfect family ski holiday in Taupo is an absolute dream. Each ski field offers beginner areas, skiing lessons, tobogganing and cafes, and daily ski shuttles are available from Taupo town and Turangi, making getting to the snow even easier (you can even organise your ski gear hire and ski passes before you go!). It really is the best place to learn to ski.

After a couple of days of play on the mountain, there are still plenty of things to do in Taupo on your family winter holiday – walking, biking, hot pools, and excellent restaurants offering hearty winter fare. Winter. Getaway. Sorted.

Consider yourself a bit of a daredevil? We’ve got that covered too – on or off the mountain. After a day of hitting the slopes, you can try a different kind of downhill and hit Taupo’s mountain biking trails instead. Or why not hurl yourself from a skydive plane, jump off a bungy platform, jetboat or whitewater raft our famous rivers, or race supercars – it’s the perfect place to get your adrenaline fix through the winter months.

For a truly rejuvenating break away you can’t go past Taupo’s lakeside accommodation dotted around Lake Taupo, world class cuisine, breathtaking views, and geothermal hot pools for those melting moments of relaxation. It could be the ultimate luxury ski holiday.

There is a bed for every head in Taupo during winter, from family-friendly holiday resorts, to luxury accommodation and everything in between – all within a short drive or shuttle to the only ski resorts in the North Island and a variety of winter experiences.

Temperatures during winter in Taupō can vary from -2˚C to 15˚C, so we recommend checking MetService for the latest Taupo weather and snow reports.

North Island winter holiday stories

Skiing & Snowboarding

The best things to do during NZ winter

Snow-related activities take center stage for many travelers seeking the ideal winter holiday in New Zealand. However, the region also offers a plethora of outdoor pursuits that cater to those seeking a rejuvenating winter vacation. 

Skiing & Snowboarding

Planning the perfect family ski holiday 

Skiing & Snowboarding

How to get your adrenaline fix in winter 

Skiing & Snowboarding

The ultimate luxury winter holiday 

Plan your winter holiday in Taupo

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