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• Waimahana Apartments 

  Lowell Place, Taupo.
  Stunning lake views across the pool and spa from some balconies. Studio, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments are just 3 km from central Taupo Town. Book now!
  
  
  
  
   

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Sightseeing

• See the “Craters of the Moon’ thermal area, 1 hour

• Visit Orakei Korako Cave and Thermal Park to view large silica terraces, 25 mins drive from Taupo, allow 2 hours to visit

• Try Taupo Hot Springs Spa and soak those tired muscles, 2 hours

• Taupo Bungy, one of the most picturesque places to leap into oblivion, allow 1 hour

• Jetboat with Huka Falls Jet, 1 hour

• Dine at Huka Prawn Park and learn how these tasty creatures are farmed, 2 hours

Drive Times

Auckland – Taupo, 3.5 hours
Wellington – Taupo, 4.5 hours

Population: 25,000

Stretched lazily alongside the biggest lake in New Zealand and watched over by Mt Tauhara, Taupo is a holiday resort destination for all seasons.  In summer the lake attracts sailors, fishermen, cyclists and walkers.  In the winter natural hot springs offer welcoming warmth after a day on the slopes of Mt Ruapehu’s ski areas, just 90 minutes drive away.  The three mountains of Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngarahoe dominate the landscape across the lake.

 
History and Culture

Lake Taupo originated with a massive volcanic explosion in 186 AD.  This eruption threw ash so high it was noticed all around the globe with the Chinese and Romans recording fiery red skies.  Maori arrived in the 13^th century when descendants of settlers from the Arawa canoe from the great Maori migration settled on the shores of the lake.  In 1877 European settlers surveyed the township which flourished due to the intensive sheep farming in the area.  As roads improved, Taupo became an important stopping off point for journeys up and down the North island, a practice which occurs to this day.  During the 20^th century, forestry became important to Taupo’s economy, as did tourism, which is now the main employer in the town.  In the 1890’s the lake and surrounding rivers were stocked with rainbow trout, making the area very popular with anglers who now visit from all around the world. 

For more information about Taupo and the region, click through to our Discover New Zealand Taupo Region section