Kinloch

Just 20 minutes from Taupō town, Kinloch is home to two excellent golf courses, including the Jack Nicklaus designed The Kinloch Club that has been ranked as the best golf course in New Zealand. It’s overlooked by the imposing castle-like luxury lodge The Kinloch Club designed to pay tribute to the township's Scottish heritage (kinloch meaning ‘head of the lake’).

At the village, the Great Lake Trail, part of Nga Haerenga - The New Zealand Cycle Trails network, diverges both east and west. By mountain bike or foot, the bush-clad trail gradually ascends to cliffs above Kinloch where uphill efforts are rewarded with magnificent views right across Lake Taupo.

Lake cruises and fishing charters can depart from or deliver to Kinloch marina. Those fortunate enough to catch a trout can barbeque it fresh from the water, beneath poplars at the lakefront park. No trout? Just order fish and chips at the local Kinloch Store to eat on the beach. Or dine at the charming Tipsy Trout cafe and restaurant while the children play with toys from the public beach library and toybox shed.