Official Food Guide
Love Taste Love TaupĹ?
lovetaupo.com
Love Waahi kai Love Local cuisine Love Journeys Love Coffe Lo C 3 New Zealand on a plate 5 Bistros and restaurants 7 CafĂŠs and eateries 10 Restaurants and bars 23 CafĂŠs 26 Specialty foods 27 Turangi
bistros, bakeries, cafés, boutique food and wine merchants, award-winning takeouts and locally brewed craft beer. Great street food, sweet treats and coffee can be found at the relaxed weekend markets. And of course, there’s the trout, which isn’t sold in shops, so the only way to enjoy its unique flavour is to catch it yourself. The chefs at many local restaurants will happily prepare your catch for you — just book in advance, or pop into one of the local butchers who are skilled at smoking trout.
ee ove Culture Love Whānau Love This place Love Taupō
Front cover: Bistro Lago, Hilton, Taupō town
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Lying in the heart of the North Island, Taupō is the “land of milk and honey”. Rich volcanic soils create fertile pastureland for grazing sheep and cattle, while the forests and crystal-clear rivers call game hunters and anglers from around the world. The region is home to specialist growers and artisan producers, as well as guides who lead bush foraging tours to collect New Zealand’s native herbs, plants and berries. There’s world-class dining at the luxury lodges, and the main towns boast excellent
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Tongariro Lodge, Turangi
New Zealand on a plate Taupō’s vibrant seasonal produce and unique local ingredients are centrepieces of the innovative and distinctive fine dining offered by Taupō’s lodges, hotels and restaurants. Working with an ‘estate to plate’ philosophy, the region’s top chefs often use ingredients produced on their own extensive grounds or sourced from the wild to create dishes that compete with the restaurants’ breathtaking views for their guests’ attention. The region’s award-winning beef and lamb, fresh-caught game, native herbs, foraged
berries and flowers, locallygrown saffron, mānuka honey and luxurious artisan ingredients from fresh truffles to specialty fruit and vegetables come together alongside New Zealand’s world-renowned wines, spirits and craft beers, in a dining experience that will stay with you. For anglers, wild rainbow trout caught in the pure waters of the lake or the rivers gives the ultimate taste of the region. Lodge and restaurant chefs are skilled at preparing the fish to its best advantage, to serve alongside their daily menu.
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Plateau Bar + Eatery, Taupō town
Edgewater Restaurant, Millennium Hotel, Taupō town
Bistros and restaurants
Pavilion Restaurant, Wairakei Resort, Wairakei
Kitchen is a BBQ meatlover’s heaven. Independent establishments like Vine Eatery, The Steak House and Plateau are known for their bustling atmosphere, and at the southern end of the lake, Tongariro Lodge, set in parklike surrounds, and Lakeland House, right on the lake’s edge, serve up beautiful seasonal produce, meat and game. Many eateries serve renowned New Zealand wines and a wide range of beer, from international labels to local craft beers like Lakeman, Escape or Crafty Trout.
Kiwis love relaxed outdoor dining, and through the warm months, Taupō’s streets are alive with people sharing meals al fresco and enjoying the glorious views across the lake. In the colder months, crackling fires welcome diners into the warmth of the region’s bistros, pubs and family restaurants. The region’s position in the heart of the North Island’s agricultural country makes it easy to find a hearty meal. Award-winning restaurant The Bistro serves up honest food with clean flavours using local produce, while Southern Meat
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Knoll Ridge Chalet, Mt. Ruapehu
The Storehouse, Taupō town
Baked with Love, Taupō town
Cafés and eateries You’ll come across some of the best food in the country tucked away in unexpected spots throughout the Taupō region. It might be Industrie French Kitchen, with its drool-worthy cabinet brimming with French pastries, sweet treats and savoury delights. Or Pauly’s Diner, a gourmet burger and Southern fried chicken joint that’s chattered about on foodie forums. Or Knoll Ridge Chalet – perched on the edge of Mt Ruapehu where the views are nothing short of spectacular. In Turangi, tucked away in
quaint surrounds behind a tackle house, you will find Creel Café, where delicate pastries and tarts, hearty pies and savoury quiches are handmade daily. Taupō’s artisanal eateries are (mostly) small in scale, but their food is created with aroha. From the delicious Argentinian empanadas to flavourful Korean dumplings and fried chicken at the weekend markets, to expansive contemporary cafés such as Baked with Love, Storehouse, Café Baku, Kefi, Lava Glass, Replete and L’Arte, this is food from and for the soul. 7
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Southern Meat Kitchen, Taupō town
Taste
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Restaurants and bars
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Restaurants and bars
We invite you to indulge in New Zealand dishes and Mediterranean influenced menus in a classy but casual atmosphere. Grab a whiskey, craft beer or wine from our full bar, then choose fireplace, table or booth setting. Enjoy from an extensive range of tapas, shared plates or Ă -la-carte options. Our wind-sheltered Alfresco dining area on the sunny side of the street is perfect all year round; from the longer evenings to relaxing winter lunches.
Open 7 days from 11 am
info@vineeatery.co.nz www.vineeatery.co.nz
37 Tuwharetoa St, TaupĹ? Tel: 07 378 5704
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Restaurants and bars
Dine on Mediterranean inspired dishes assembled with the finest ingredients sourced right here in NZ, coupled with a selection of the finest Italian & NZ wines and international beers. Right in the heart of Taupō.
TAKE AWAYS | WHEELCHAIR ACCESS | VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY | GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS
www.osteriataupo.co.nz
42 Tuwharetoa Street, Taupo | Ph: 07 378 8212 Winter hours 4.30pm Wednesday – Sunday. Summer open 7 days. V/DF/GF. Child friendly
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Restaurants and bars
Plateau Bar + Eatery
Taupō town
Located in the heart of Taupō, Plateau Bar + Eatery offers the best dining experience for lunch, dinner and everything in between. Established in 2004, Plateau has truly stood the test of time and continues to be a locals’ favourite. Locally owned and operated, we have a passion for hospitality. Our food is inspired by fresh, local produce and the changing seasons. We love fresh, innovative food that’s delicious with just a little fuss. Our food is complemented by a great selection of craft beers, boutique wines and professional, friendly service. Plateau Bar + Eatery has been awarded the 2019 Beef and Lamb award for achieving the highest culinary standard in beef and lamb. Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday Lunch 11.30am – 3.30pm, Dinner 5.00pm – 9.30pm A T E W
64 Tuwharetoa Street, Taupō +64 7 377 2425 info@plateautaupo.co.nz plateautaupo.co.nz
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Restaurants and bars
Finn’s Gastro Pub & Beer Garden
Taupō town
The good times still remain at the newly remodelled Finn’s Gastro Pub & Beer Garden. We have something for all ages, friends, groups or your family. Our fresh modern pub-food style menu includes all the classics, along with speciality pizzas and healthy kids’ plates that they will love. Relax in the beer garden or choose one of the tables in our restaurant. We have a large selection of craft beer, lager, ciders, and tap beers including our local and exclusive Lakeman lager. Enjoy major sporting events and music on our big screens. Play a game of pool, try your luck in our gaming lounge, or enjoy our club nights on Friday and Saturday. Opening hours: Sunday – Thursday 11.00am – late Friday and Saturday 11.00am – 3.00am (one way door after 2.00am) A T E W
10 Tuwharetoa Street, Taupō +64 7 378 6165 finnstaupo@gmail.com finnstaupo.co.nz
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Restaurants and bars
Two Mile Bay Sailing Club
Taupō town
Chill out at Two Mile Bay on the lake’s edge, enjoying panoramic lake views at Taupō’s number one location. Enjoy one of “New Zealand’s best pizzas” and a Peroni while listening to some of the regions most talented musicians as the sun goes down. The kids will be entertained for hours over the summer months playing on the inflatable raft while you get to have some relaxation time soaking up the famous atmosphere and vibe. Licenced and open every day for coffee, bagels, toasties, pizzas and of course drinks! Whether you’re relaxing inside, out on the jetty or chilling out on the bean bags, Two Mile Bay Sailing Club is a must-visit during your stay. Boasting the best view in Taupō, come down for a drink and check out our website for all of our pop up events. Venue hire available.
Opening hours: 7 days from 8.00am - 10.00pm. Live music every Friday and Sunday. A T E W
331 Lake Terrace, Taupō +64 27 588 6588 hello@2miletaupo.com 2miletaupo.com
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Restaurants and bars
Huka Prawn Park
Located 9 minutes from town, you’ll find Taupō’s only riverside restaurant. Huka Prawn Park offers an idyllic setting featuring tasty prawn and non-prawn dishes to satisfy all. We’re a family friendly restaurant with two play areas, one inside and one out. A T E W
Wairakei
Cosy up by our open fireplace with a mulled wine or dine al fresco with a local craft beer. Suitable for large groups or intimate dining. Opening hours: from 9.30am (daytime operation only).
Karetoto Road, Taupō +64 7 374 8474 info@hukaprawnpark.co.nz hukaprawnpark.co.nz
The Bay Bar and Brasserie
Welcome to The Bay Bar and Brasserie, your favourite Taupō bar and restaurant. Enjoy the sun outside in summer and the roaring fire inside during winter. We offer a range of Mac’s beers, wines, ciders and amazing food crafted by our talented chefs. A T E W
703 Acacia Bay Road, Taupō +64 7 378 8886 thebaybartaupo@gmail.com thebaybar.co.nz
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Acacia Bay
You’ll always be made to feel welcome by our friendly staff with their great service. Opening hours: Tuesday - Thursday 4.00pm - late. Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12.00pm - late.
Restaurants and bars
Bistro Lago
With views over Lake Taupō, quality local produce and a seasonal menu, Bistro Lago is a local favourite. Located at Hilton Lake Taupō, Bistro Lago’s Executive Chef works closely with Nourish Group Head Chef Gareth Stewart to showcase the best our region has to offer. A T E W
Taupō town
Pop in and ask our team about Lago Locals, offering Taupō locals exclusive offers. Located at Hilton Lake Taupō. Opening hours: from 7.00am - 9.00pm for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
80-100 Napier Road, Taupō +64 7 376 2319 email@bistrolago.co.nz bistrolago.co.nz
The Steak House Taupō
The Steak House Taupō has been welcoming tourists, families, couples, corporate groups and local residents since 1984. We are committed to creating a culinary destination that showcases New Zealand’s finest produce, delivers genuine service, and supports local trade. A T W F
Taupō town
We serve Canterbury Premium Angus beef, Ovation lamb, fresh fish, free range chicken, vegetarian options, salads and pasta. Opening hours: 7 nights a week, 4.00pm - late. Bookings recommended, but not essential.
17 Tongariro Street, Taupō +64 7 378 6788 steakhousetaupo.nz facebook.com/steakhousetaupo
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Restaurants and bars
Cobb & Co. Taupō
Now locally owned by Peter and Heather. It’s always a warm friendly welcome at Cobb & Co., a New Zealand favourite since 1973. Cobb & Co. serves simple, fresh New Zealand food with plenty of choices, from classic burgers to tender AngusPure steaks. The kids menus A T W F
Taupō town
are the best in town – Traffic Light mocktails are kiwi favourites! Opening hours: 7 days from 12.00pm. Book online, call or simply come in and see us - right across from the Tongariro Domain gardens, with views of the lake.
29 Tongariro Street, Taupō +64 7 377 1112 cobb.co.nz facebook.com/cobbtaupo
Incredible India Restaurant and Bar
Incredible India is an ideal venue for a convivial after work get together, a sumptuous pre-theatre meal or an indulgent late night curry with friends and family. Authentic flavour combinations delight the palate, from earthy, rich spices that are blended with meticulous care to achieve a tantalising A T W F
19 Paora Hapi Street, Taupō +64 7 217 0199 incredibleindia.co.nz facebook.com/iirestaurant
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Taupō town
balance of sweet, sour and piquant. In the skilled hands of our chefs, it is these unique spice blends that bring each and every dish so vividly to life. You can ring us for takeaways and deliveries, or use our online ordering system which is easier and faster.
Restaurants and bars
Tejano Cantina
Tejano is a tex mex restaurant that offers fresh tasty food and quality drinks from both sides of the border. We’re here for a good time for all the family with kids specials, entertainment and meal deals the whole tribe will love! Late Night Tejano is transformed into a fun and engaging fiesta bar, complete A T E W
Taupō town
with live entertainment, djs, cocktails, themed events and plenty of dancing. What better way to work off your dinner than cutting shapes ‘til late hours. Come on through amigos!
7 Tūwharetoa Street, Taupō +64 21 085 4675 taupo@tejanocantina.com tejanocantina.com/taupo
Indian Delights
Experience authentic Indian cuisine with a million dollar lake view. We at the Indian Delights Restaurant & Bar strive to ensure you will receive the best Indian hospitality experience with a relaxing friendly atmosphere. We have the best authentic Indian food, not only In Taupō but in the whole of A T E W
Taupō town
New Zealand. We do dining, takeaways, delivery and private functions, with a seating capacity of up to 80 guests. Many options including gluten free and vegan. Opening hours: 11.00am – 10.00pm or late.
10 Robert Street, Taupō +64 7 378 8802 info@indiandelight.co.nz indiandelight.co.nz
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Restaurants and bars
Taupō Indian Cuisine
Taupō Indian Cuisine restaurant and bar, located in Paetiki shopping centre, is your cosy neighbourhood Indian restaurant. Enjoy daily lunch special for just $10.99 and non-vegetarian dinner specials for $27.99, vegetarian for $24.99. Enjoy dine-in, takeaway and delivery. A T W
Taupō town
Call on 07 378 0383 or go online taupoindiancuisine.co.nz to place your order or to book a table. Opening hours: 11.00am – 2.30pm, 4.30pm – 10.00pm.
230/1 Taharepa Road, Taupō +64 7 378 0383 taupoindiancuisine.co.nz
Brantry Eatery @ Brantry House
The Brantry Eatery is your one stop destination for delicious contemporary New Zealand inspired dishes, using the freshest quality & seasonal produce whilst also presenting the best in New Zealand Art with ZeaYou Gallery conveniently located on the Top Floor for a unique dining experience. A T E W
45 Rifle Range Road, Taupō +64 7 378 0484 brantry@xtra.co.nz thebrantry.co.nz
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Taupō town
Set in a charming character house with a lovely cottage garden, with incredible art throughout and a cosy open fireplace for winter, The Brantry Eatery offers a delightful setting to enjoy great food & company. Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday from 5.30pm. Lunches Friday – Sunday 11.00am – 3.00pm.
Restaurants and bars
Malabar Indian Restaurant & Bar
Taupō town
At Malabar, we bring to you the fine art of balancing taste, flavour and aroma. We capture the essence of traditional Indian & Nepalese cuisine and present it with contemporary flair. Dine in, takeaway and free delivery. A T E W
2/40 Tūwharetoa Street, Taupō +64 7 376 5456 or +64 7 376 5454 malabarbeyondindia@gmail.com malabartaupo.com
Crafty Trout Brewery
Taupō town
It doesn’t get fresher or more local than this! Beer, cider and nonalcoholic ginger beer all crafted onsite. Experience our charming alpine and fishing lodge style bar and eatery. Plus fillery, bottle store and giftware shop. A T E W
135 Tongariro Street, Taupō +64 7 929 8570 info@craftytrout.co.nz craftytrout.co.nz
No. 1 China Restaurant
Taupō town
The first Chinese restaurant in Taupō! Snug banquet seating creates an intimate vibe, perfect for family-time or a casual date. The all-Chinese kitchen team keeps a stream of authentic dishes flowing steadily out of the kitchen. A T E
8 Northcroft Street, Taupō +64 7 377 8886 taupochina1@gmail.com
Love food. Love Taupō
The insider’s guide to world-class food and wine in Taupō.
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Restaurants and bars
Spoon and Paddle
Located in a 1950’s house, renovated with upcycled pallet walls, Spoon and Paddle’s menu is influenced by each season’s produce. Where possible they use local, environmentally sustainable growers and providers to create a unique dining experience.
A T E
In our McCafe our fully trained and experienced baristas proudly use rainforest-certified Arabica coffee beans. They produce a wide range of high quality espresso coffees and beverages at affordable prices.
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Spoon and Paddle’s highly experienced chefs pair classic café selections with some tasty modern, street-style options, excellent coffee and a concise beer and wine list. The garden playground will get the kids exploring, while mum and dad relax on the lawn.
101 Heuheu Street, Taupō +64 7 378 9664 cafe@spoonandpaddle.co.nz
McDonald’s Taupō
A T E W
Taupō town
Taupō town
Our team are friendly and welcoming, ensuring that you enjoy your coffee in clean and tidy surroundings with awesome views of our beautiful lake and mountains. You can even get our barista made coffees in our Drive Thru on the McDonald’s side.
SIMPLY GOOD COFFEE
48 Roberts Street, Taupō +64 7 378 8679 0049@nz.stores.mcd.com mcdonalds.co.nz
® Available at 22participating McCafé s during McCafé opening hours.
Cafés
Industrie French Kitchen
Discover Taupō’s French inspired kitchen and patisserie. Our daily breakfast and lunch menu offers a variety of free-range, organic and gluten free meals alongside a delicious cabinet range with pastries and sweets baked fresh daily.
A T W
Taupō town
Try our signature dishes: Truffled Polenta Black Pudding or House Cured Salmon. Proud to serve authentic Fixation coffee by an awardwinning barista. Opening hours: 7 days from 6.30am - 4.00pm
1/200 Napier Taupō Road, Taupō +64 7 376 5591 facebook.com/industrie.frenchkitchen
Bodyfuel Cafe
Bodyfuel Cafe has been operating since 2007 and has become synonymous with amazing breakfasts and lunches, using only the best organic and free-range ingredients! Add great coffee and lots of space, and you get Bodyfuel - an award-winning
A T E
Taupō town
café located in the beautiful town of Taupō. We even have gluten free and dairy free, and a number of vegetarian options to suit everyone’s needs, so no one misses out!
67 Tongariro Street, Taupō +64 7 378 9555 bodyfuelcafetaupo@gmail.com
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Cafés
Café Baku
Taupō town
Friendly service, great coffee and perfect location all combine to make Café Baku the ideal meeting place for friends, family and colleagues. Café Baku uses only certified free range eggs through our ‘Good Chef, Bad Chef’ focused menus. Meals are made on-site in our large kitchen and our aim A T E W
is to serve up fresh, seasonal produce that will delight your tastebuds. Epicurean delights are added frequently to our cabinet and specials board. You’ll be wanting to come back again and again... Opening hours: 7 days from 6.00am - 4.00pm
42 Roberts Street, Taupō +64 7 378 6715 admin@cafebaku.co.nz cafebaku.co.nz
Feast Café
Taupō town
Feast Café, located within the Taupō Airport offers homestyle baking, sandwiches, savouries, smoothies and award-winning Altura coffee. Great location to meet friends and watch planes come and go. Corporate catering and local giftware. Open 7 days. A T W
Taupō Airport, 1101 Anzac Memorial Drive, Taupō +64 21 311 984 facebook.com/taupoairport
Columbus Coffee Taupō At Columbus you’ll find freshly roasted premium coffee, wholesome breakfasts, lunches and treats – all freshly prepared by our chefs, using seasonal and local produce. We also offer unique Local Favourites menu items, alongside Columbus favourites. A T E W
99 Bella George Lane, Taupō +64 7 929 8990 taupo.mega@columbuscoffee.co.nz columbuscoffee.co.nz
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Taupō town
Cafés
Kefi Café
Taupō town
Kefi and Kefi at The Hub have made a great name as a Mediterranean style café. We have a wide variety of scratch made keto, vegan, raw, and gluten free menu options for everyone. Pick up and delivery options available. A A T W
Kefi: 47 Horomatangi Street, Taupō Kefi at the Hub: 415 Huka Falls Road, Taupō +64 7 376 7694 facebook.com/keficafe
Fine Fettle Café
Taupō town
Fine Fettle is a warm, family café that has a variety of gluten free and vegan options. A fantastic place to meet friends, colleagues, or take the family, with kids play area and organic fair-trade coffee. A T E W
39 Paora Hapi Street, Taupō +64 7 378 7674 finefettlecafe@hotmail.com facebook.com/finefettlecafe
The Cozy Corner
Taupō town
Healthy and delicious soul food made in-house. There’s something for everyone including paleo, gluten free and vegan diets. Cool down with fresh juices and smoothie bowls, or get cozy with organic coffee and nourishing burgers. A T E W
Suncourt Plaza, 19 Tamamutu Street +64 7 377 1233 camilla@thecozycorner.co.nz thecozycorner.co.nz
Baked With Love
Taupō town
We have just opened our big new eatery which is fast becoming the destination café in the region, offering delicious freshly baked doughnuts, sourdough, cakes, savouries and an extensive menu for brekkie, brunch or lunch. Open 7 days. A T T W
11 Gascoigne Street, Taupō For eatery – +64 7 376 5098 For cakery – +64 7 376 5513 bakedwithlove.co.nz
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Specialty foods
The Source Bulk Foods
The Source Bulk Foods is changing the way New Zealanders buy groceries, offering over 500 quality whole foods and household goods for the entire family. With a focus on organic, vegan, gluten free and paleo friendly products, the company is committed to supporting local suppliers and A T E W
Taupō town
sustainable, ethical production. Passionate about the environment, the Source Bulk Foods proudly supports the Zero Waste movement, encouraging customers to shop consciously by bringing in their own containers, and is an active supporter of environmental and community initiatives.
41 Paora Hapi Street, Taupō +64 7 213 2766 taupo@thesourcebulkfoods.co.nz thesourcebulkfoods.co.nz
Baker’s Delight Since 1980 our bakers have been committed to ensuring every loaf, every roll and every bun is a delight to bake, a delight to eat and delivered through a delightful experience. With all natural ingredients, we have FODMAP and low GI options to suit every lifestyle. A T E W
Spa Gate, Paora Hapi Street, Taupō +64 7 376 8344 bakersdelighttaupo@gmail.com bakersdelight.co.nz
Must do’s in Taupō
To help you plan your trip, here’s a list of the best Taupō attractions and activities.
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Taupō town
Turangi
Hare & Copper Eatery & Bar
Hare & Copper Eatery & Bar is a casual, contemporary restaurant set in the old River Wines Vineyard on Grace Road in Turangi. The menus are designed by Chef Andrew Wood who also sources the best possible local ingredients to create his great dishes. A T E W
Turangi
Discover the much-loved classic brunch selection, a great variety of choices on the share plates option plus a scrumptious dinner menu. The inviting and pleasurable, yet peaceful grounds allow you to sit back, enjoy the friendly service and create long lasting memories.
2/134 Grace Road, Turangi +64 7 386 0746 contact@hareandcopper.co.nz hareandcopper.co.nz
Floating Rock Café
Kuratau
A must visit when in Kuratau at the southern end of Lake Taupō. Floating Rock Café is known for it’s wood fired pizza, great coffee, and Floating Rock organic wines grown right outside the café.
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30 Riverpark Drive Kuratau +64 7 386 0806 facebook/floating rock cafe
Hydro Eatery
Turangi
In the heart of Turangi, with the large sunny deck, you’ll find Hydro Eatery. Offering a modern day breakfast menu, lunch, cabinet food options, catering and functions, Hydro strives to make your visit the best possible experience. A T E
Cnr Ohuanga Road & Pihanga Street, Turangi 07 386 6612 hydroturangi@gmail.com
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