Please note: Tongariro Alpine Crossing and other tracks across Tongariro National Park has reopened. Read the latest DOC update and track information here.
Please note: Tongariro Alpine Crossing and other tracks across Tongariro National Park has reopened. Read the latest DOC update and track information here.
Taupō has a vibrant arts culture bred by its relaxed pace of life, which draws many creatives and artisans to the region. From traditional Māori carving and weaving to contemporary painting, sculpture, ceramics, glass-blowing, wood-carving and street art, there’s a wealth of beautiful work to see (and even take home).
Taupo town centre has several art galleries and a small museum that host changing exhibitions. The popular annual Taupō Art Trail on Queen’s Birthday weekend goes inside local artists’ own studios to show their process up close.
In spring, the Graffiato: Taupō Street Art Festival is a high-energy celebration, bringing local and international artists to add to Taupō’s surprising and diverse collection of public murals.
The Lava Glass Sculpture Garden is a must-visit for art fans. Featuring more than 600 handcrafted glass sculptures and is the only garden of this kind in New Zealand.
Like many resort towns, Taupō hosts boutique film festivals, local and travelling theatre shows and outdoor music events, including the annual Taupō Summer Concert, featuring international artists.
Discover the region's Māori cultural heritage at the Taupō Museum, and visit some of New Zealand’s most significant Māori pa sites (fortified villages) where you can learn about the history of the famous Ka Mate Haka at Opotaka Historic Reserve or discover the site where the last major engagement of the New Zealand Wars was fought in 1869 at Te Porere Redoubt.
Chris Jolly Outdoors has been looking after you for 40 years and that continues during COVID-19. Our ability to socially distance you on your 90 minute tour makes us part of your 'top things to do in Taupō'. Spacious and sparkly clean.
Carvings, as preserved by Maori. Delani is a master carver, with pieces on display in a number of places.
Ride through the Enchanted Forest and discover Santa's hideout with your horse.
Escape the hectic of life and experience the beauty of the lake and the Māori Rock Carvings on Lake Taupō's largest charter yacht Kindred Spirit with superior comfort.
Wander through an arty oasis featuring manicured grounds and hundreds of glass sculptures.
Discover the magic of glass art with our Combination Ticket. Enjoy entry to our Glassblowing Studio, where you can watch talented artists create unique designs daily. Then, explore our one-of-a-kind Sculpture Garden.
Fine art and indoor plant boutique in Marama Arcade that celebrates and supports New Zealand-made.
Daily scenic cruises to the Maori Rock Carvings onboard the Ernest Kemp, a replica steamboat. Ernest Kemp cruises daily all year round - four times during summer and twice in winter. Enjoy stunning Lake Taupo and the carvings on this 2 hour cruise.
'Sharing Taupo stories with the world' is the motto of this vibrant district museum which contains an array of exhibits with everything from Maori treasures, a Kiwiana caravan and art galleries.
Discover our range of beautiful handmade wheelthrown and dramatic freeform ware, all in signature rich colourful glazes.
