Love Tūrangi
Tongariro River, Tūrangi
  1. Home
  2. Discover
  3. Our towns and villages
  4. Turangi

Tūrangi

Nestled on the plains below the forest-clad Kaimanawa Ranges, Turangi is a basecamp for world-class fly fishing for trout on the pristine Tongariro River, and the gateway to the awe-inspiring beauty and adventure of the Tongariro National Park.

It’s an incredible 40 minutes drive south from Taupō to Tūrangi, where you’ll wind around the lake’s edge and take in breathtaking views. And on arrival to your destination, you will find a bustling tourist town with plenty of fantastic activities on offer, all year round.

Built on the banks of the mighty Tongariro River, Tūrangi is as unique as the terrain that surrounds it. From untouched mountain-tops to the burnt orange desert rocks of the central plateau and the bright blue crater lakes of volcanoes that dot the landscape - it’s diversity at its very best, delighting all those who visit this truly special location.

A brief history of Tūrangi


The history of Tūrangi dates back many hundreds of years when those who came to New Zealand on the Te Arawa Canoe moved south from their settlements in the Bay of Plenty and the East Coast. Known as the Ngati Tuwharetoa tribe, they settled around Taupo Moana (the island sea) from the 16th century.

In more recent times, the present town of Tūrangi was developed as a ‘hydro town’ to provide housing for the influx of workers employed to build on the Tongariro Power Project in the 1970s. However, unlike other temporary townships set up for the construction of hydro power stations around the country, Tūrangi was designed to remain a town after the project was finished.

Once the Tongariro Power Stations were complete, many workers left, but a number did stay on and Tūrangi was able to establish itself as a centre for leisure activities, as well as farming, forestry, fishing and hunting.

Today, Tūrangi is a friendly, tourist town as well as the entrance to Tongariro National Park - New Zealand’s oldest national park and one of only 29 sites around the world with dual World Heritage status. This is in recognition of both the park’s Māori cultural and spiritual significance, alongside its unique volcanic features.

Things to do in Tūrangi

An easier question to answer would be ‘what is there not to do in Tūrangi?’; Because it sure packs a punch when it comes to adventure and experiences.

Here’s a few ideas to get you started.

Stay in Tūrangi

Filter by
Sort by
Map
Displaying 1 - 10 of 40
  • Holiday homes

    Waitetoko Waterfront - Waitetoko Holiday Home

    Do you long to whisk the family away for a getaway where you can switch off from the stresses of normal life and dip your toes in the water just steps from your door? Welcome to Waitetoko Waterfront.

    $157 - $690 Book now
  • Holiday homes

    Drift @ 5 Mile Bay

    Where vintage charm meets modern luxury on the shores of Lake Taupo. Indulge in the ultimate lakeside escape with panoramic views of Lake Taupo and the majestic mountains beyond.

    $800 - $1,000
  • Holiday homes

    The Lake House Garden - Waitetoko Holiday Home

    Set back one block from the lake and enjoying an elevated position for a great view of the lake, this home away from home is ready and waiting with a cosy and welcoming ambience. Welcome to The Lake House Garden.

    $142 - $686 Book now
  • Boutique & Lodge

    Tongariro Lodge

    Tongariro Lodge is New Zealand's most iconic trout fishing lodge. Situated on the banks of the legendary Tongariro River on the Southern shores of Lake Taupo. Enjoy the outdoors in style perfect for trout fisherman and outdoor enthusiasts.

    $299 - $699 Book now
  • Holiday homes

    Lakefront Villa - Waitahanui Holiday Home

    While away the hours gazing out at breathtaking views of stunning Lake Taupo, all from the comfort of your spacious, two-storey Tuscan style holiday home. Welcome to Lakefront Villa.

    $307 - $1,632 Book now
  • Motels

    Turangi Bridge Motel

    Relax and unwind in our Lodge-style New Zealand accommodation. Turangi Bridge Motel offers warm and sunny units located on the banks of the Tongariro River. Onsite Restaurant and Bar.

    $139 - $220 Book now
  • Holiday homes

    Perfect Position - Motuoapa Holiday Home

    Just moments from the lake edge and marina, Perfect Position is a 4 bedroom 2 bathroom Motuoapa holiday home. With plenty of room for the family, this warm and welcoming house is an ideal option for your next adventure.

    $156 - $707 Book now
  • Holiday homes

    Lakeside Retreat - Motuoapa Holiday Home

    Welcome to Lakeside Retreat, a one-bedroom, fully self-contained attached space that is part of a large house, set up as apartment-style/bach living, with a retro twist.

    $132 - $325 Book now
  • Holiday homes

    Marina Views - Motuoapa Bach

    A classic Kiwi bach in a truly enviable Motuoapa location - welcome to Marina Views.

    $138 - $656 Book now
  • Backpackers & hostels

    Golden Fern Backpackers

    Turangi the gateway to the Tongariro National Park, with daily transport to the Tongariro Crossing, Northern Circuit Mt Ruapehu (ski fields) and Kaimanawa ranges. Enjoy your stay in dorm, share, double or twin rooms with private or shared bathrooms.

    $27 - $80 Book now
of 4 Next

Get Taupo stories and deals straight to your inbox!

You might also like...

Family Friendly

Top 10 must-do's in Tūrangi

We've compiled a list of the top 10 must-do's according to locals to help you explore the very best of Tūrangi. 

Skiing & Snowboarding

An ice way to play: pack up the kids 

Food & Drink

The insider's foodie guide to Turangi 

Huka Falls River Cruise Family
Multi day trip

7 days of family fun in Taupō 

Share your #LoveTaupo stories with us

  1. Home
  2. Discover
  3. Our towns and villages
  4. Turangi