Taupō luxury lodges: home to royals, rich and famous

British royalty were among the earliest Europeans to travel to the volcanic heartland of the North Island, attracted by tales of great natural wonders, such as the Pink and White Terraces; since then Taupō has been a bucket list destination for the rich and famous.

Adventurers, authors, artists and photographers followed in the royal footsteps helping to promote the stories and the glories of New Zealand’s largest lake — Lake Taupō, the sacred volcanoes of Tongariro National Park — Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngāuruhoe, the great Tongariro River and its legendary trout, the geothermal wonders and healing waters of natural hot springs.

These days, Taupō is within easy reach of Auckland or Wellington by private plane, helicopter, or via a scenic road trip in chauffeured luxury vehicles. Day trips from Taupō might include hiking in Tongariro National Park, cultural experiences in Rotorua and exploring Hawke’s Bay wine country.

Huka Lodge, Taupō

New Zealand’s oldest, most celebrated luxury destination, Huka Lodge has evolved from a humble fishing camp into a luxury icon that’s hosted an incredibly long list of the fabulously rich and powerful, everyone from royals to pop stars—including the late Queen Elizabeth II who stayed four times during royal visits.

On the banks of the deep flowing emerald blue waters of the Waikato River—upstream from Huka Falls and a few minutes from Taupō town—the lodge is sited for supreme privacy amidst manicured lawns, expansive award-winning gardens and woodlands. It is renowned for discreet hospitality, fine cuisine and an expansive wine cellar featuring over 4000 bottles of superb vintages.

Originally established as a base for anglers seeking out the region’s legendary trout, the little guided fishing business has expanded over the years into an iconic luxury destination. To celebrate a century of hospitality, the lodge closed for a major refurbishment in 2024, reopening in March 2025 with a contemporary new style, expanded dining areas and a dedicated spa and wellness area.

Since then, Huka Lodge has earned several international accolades:

• Forbes Travel Guide recognised Huka Lodge among the world’s best hotels, describing the luxury lodge as “sustainable luxury in the New Zealand wild” and a thrill seeker's paradise.
• Listed #88 in the extended ‘World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025’.
• Awarded 2 keys in the Michelin Guide 2025.

Kinloch Manor & Villas

For anyone in Kinloch, on the northern shores of Lake Taupō, there’s no missing Kinloch Manor & Villas—looking for all the world like a grand medieval fortress perched on the secluded hilltop gazing down onto the lake. But that’s just the outside.

Grand within and without, up close the main lodge is a bold architectural statement of contemporary luxury designed to make the most of the unforgettable lake views, and the fairways and greens of the 18-hole championship golf course it sits within. Elegant airy interiors with a minimalist aesthetic expand into outdoor spaces for dining, social activities and relaxation.

Guests enjoy stylish modern villa-style accommodation—one- and two bedroom self contained cottages with amazing views and access to all the considered services of a fine, luxury accommodation including the blissful pleasures of a serene spa facility with comprehensive services.

The lodge sits on a 254 ha estate that includes the Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course. It’s 10 minutes to the shores of Lake Taupō and a 20-minute drive to Taupō town.

Lake Taupō Lodge

A design masterpiece in its own right, Lake Taupō Lodge is the enduring passion project of New Zealand fashion industry icons and keen gardeners Gary and Shirley Akers who have spent over 30 years transforming a wild, bush-covered lot into an iconic Taupō property. The couple bought the original 10-acre lot overlooking Acacia Bay with the idea of creating a private lakeside retreat in a beautiful garden—a dream home that eventually evolved into an award-winning luxury accommodation.

The distinctive lodge architecture draws inspiration from the classic design aesthetic of Frank Lloyd Wright who sought to embrace the organic and unique features of the natural landscape. Secluded and private, the buildings are surrounded by exquisitely landscaped gardens, a tranquil haven for native flora and fauna, with breathtaking views of Acacia Bay, Lake Taupō and the majestic peaks of Tongariro National Park.

Elegantly appointed interiors range over three levels with six spacious suites offering superb comfort, privacy and wide views of the lake and gardens. Facilities include a restaurant and bar, fireside nooks, library, full-sized billiard table and sun loungers in the gardens. The lodge is close to Taupō town, lakeside tourism activities, fishing spots, walking trails and two championship golf courses—Wairakei Sanctuary and Golf, and The Kinloch Club.

Poronui Lodge

Poronui Lodge sits on a vast high country estate in the remote foothills of the Kaimanawa Range, between Taupō and Hawke’s Bay. From Taupō, it’s an hour or more by car via back country roads so helicopters regularly ferry guests onto the farm and out for activities.

On this 16,000-acre working farm and wilderness, production of cattle and deer for meat, and beekeeping for manuka honey go hand-in-hand with conserving the natural environment. A third of the property is covered in native beech forests alongside manuka-clad hills and pristine waterways providing a precious environment for rare and endangered species.

Kilometres of tracks and trails—with options for walkers, bikers, horseriders and 4WD vehicles—criss cross the property. With two rivers designated as outstanding fisheries, Poronui is popular with anglers. Other outdoor adventures could include guided hunting, horse riding and exclusive Māori culture experiences.

Poronui chefs love to wow guests with beautiful food in fabulous spots—from sundowners in a field to riverside picnics and gourmet tasting menus in the wine cellar. Other facilities include The Stables—home to the horses, gym and health club facilities and a riverside glamping site for romantic or family adventures.

River Birches Lodge, Tūrangi

Early 20th century photographs of British royals casting their lines into the river and tales told by famed author and fisherman, Zane Grey, first helped to spread the fame of Tūrangi and the Tongariro River. More than a century on, anglers from around the world still revere the Tongariro as New Zealand’s finest fly fishing.

River Birches is a small, boutique lodge set in a leafy garden surrounded by towering birch and beech trees. It’s on the banks of the Tongariro River and close to some of the most famous fishing pools—a few minutes walk or a short drive to the famed Major Jones pool and The Duchess, named after the young Duchess of York (later the Queen Mother) who fished here in 1927.

Lodge accommodation is in three cedar-clad, luxury guest rooms and a self-contained cottage for families. The friendly staff at River Birches can organise everything for a fishing day out or a serious angling expedition—from waders and rods to licenses, transport, and expert fishing guides. Back home in the evening, the chef can turn freshly caught trout into a memorable dining experience.

River Birches is also a popular stay for visitors exploring Dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park and hikers heading out to New Zealand’s best known one-day hike, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. It’s a 30-minute drive to the start of the Crossing.

Tongariro Lodge, Tūrangi

Reigning queens, future kings—include King Charles—and at least one US president have travelled to Tūrangi to cast their expert lines into the Tongariro River. Their photos and stories adorn the walls of Tongariro Lodge—an iconic fishing destination that has built a considerable international reputation.

Established back in 1982 by legendary Kiwi angler and guide Tony Hayes, Tongariro Lodge has earned its place among New Zealand’s iconic fishing lodges. Supremely placed on the banks of the Tongariro River, at the southern end of Lake Taupō and close to the river mouth at Tūrangi, Tongariro Lodge lies within easy reach of world-class fly fishing..

The lodge occupies a sprawling, 22-acre park filled with mature trees and guest accommodation in a series of private chalets and villas (2-5 bedrooms) with lovely views, access to the Tongariro River, a secluded spa pool and tennis court. The main lodge features restaurant dining rooms, comfortable lounges, open fires and a magnificent collection of past fishing trophies.

Tūrangi is true central North Island—a four-hour drive from Auckland or Wellington— and within easy reach of skiing at Whakapapa and hiking in Tongariro National Park (40 minutes by road).