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Taupō time out — 3Rs for adults

Let Taupō gently guide you into a world of fresh air and wide horizons. Your perfect escape unfolds with each peaceful breath, where geothermal whispers and lakeside calm invite you to slow down—and simply be.

Relax. Refresh. Reset

Waikarei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa

If you’re seeking tranquil beauty, peace and space to unwind, Taupō has all the essentials for a holiday that sets YOU apart from the ordinary.

Imagine pure relaxation

Chris Jolly Outdoors

Relaxation in Taupō begins with getting here. In the pristine heart of the central North Island, we’re an easy find.

Fly in (under an hour from Auckland, an hour from Wellington), or an easy scenic drive from the main North Island centres. It’s like all roads — in the North Island, at least — lead to Taupō and each one holds a scenic highlight or four.

By the time you get to within sight of Lake Taupō’s great shimmering body of pure fresh water, you’ll already be starting to relax. Pack a picnic or pick up something delicious en route and get your first taste of Taupō at a pretty picnic spot — arriving from the south, you’ll find plenty of quiet picnic spots along the lakeshore, or beside the river coming from the north.

No need to hurry so take in the spectacular scenery and savour those first long, deep breaths of pure fresh air — in certain spots that could also be a whiff of geothermal action.

Getting here and around

Refresh your life

Kinloch

Taupō is surrounded by the great outdoors. Picture the scene, it’s a big picture.

Our ‘great lake’ Taupō is the biggest body of freshwater in the southern hemisphere, our legendary active volcanoes are the tallest in the North Island, and our mighty Waikato River is New Zealand’s longest river. Our skies go on forever, plus we’ve got the biggest trout fishery.

It’s a dynamic landscape for sure. All that greatness can make a simple human feel quite small but it could also be the chance to find your place in the bigger picture. It’s totally your choice on how active you want to make yourself.

Reset with nature

Sail Barbary eco-sailing Lake Taupō

Taupō has extraordinary landscapes are the natural reset — whether you’re wanting to conquer your fears, going for some kind of personal best, cruising across the lake or just after taking time out like soaking your cares away in healing mineral waters.

These active geothermal landscapes are the perfect gift for relaxation. Discover trails to amazing geothermal wonders bubbling up from far below the earth or find your perfect zen position in a steaming hot pool of healing waters where there’s absolutely nothing to do except be yourself.

Check into Taupō and stay awhile. Our legendary hospitality has seen us recognised as one of the world’s most welcoming towns. There’s a place for your stay here, and you’re welcome.

Health & Wellness

Romantic winter experiences in Taupo

From sparkling lakes and turquoise rivers to steaming geothermal moonscapes and ancient volcanic terrain to explore, it’s not only the romantic scenery that will take your breath away. 

Couple at Wairakei Terraces Health & Thermal Spa - Hot Pools - Taupo, New Zealand
Geothermal

A romantic weekend in Taupō 

Make it up in Taupo Make fun, memories, romance 

Food & Drink

Whakaipo Lodge: where luxury, serenity, and local delights await you 

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