2021
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TAUPŌ & THE VOLCANIC LOOP HIGHWAY
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The Ultimate Guide Taupō and the Volcanic Loop Highway 2021
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TAUPŌ
MUST SEE – MUST DO
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SWIMMING SPOTS
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GREAT WALKS & BIKE TRAILS
TAUPŌ TOWNCENTRE
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PICNIC SPOTS
SOUTHERN LAKE TAUPŌ
FAMILY FRIENDLY
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VOLCANIC LOOP HIGHWAY
Proudly published by www.ninetyblack.com since 1997 Tēnā koutou to our contributors! A huge shout out to lovetaupo.com, our local operators, and our visitors and instagrammers who supplied us with imagery to share with our readers. cover image courtesy of Lake Taupō Sailing Adventures
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The Ultimate Guide
Welcome to Taupō The perfect blend of leisure and adventure
H
ome to New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake, volcanic wonderlands, many fishing spots and the famous Huka Falls, Great Lake Taupō is truly blessed with world-class natural attractions. Situated among clean green countryside, spectacular mountain scenery, beautiful native bush and some of the largest pine forests in the Southern Hemisphere, the natural beauty and diversity of this town are what make it the ultimate adventure playground.
HOME 30 Tongariro Street, Taupō Phone-Square-Alt (07) 376 0027
Discover a boutique-style town centre with gourmet food, art and craft galleries, boutique shopping, and accommodation all near the lake and its many recreational activities. Also widely known as the events capital of New Zealand, Taupō has a busy events calendar that keeps the town buzzing. From the sedate to the sensational - a white water adventure to a hot soak and round of golf - you'll soon love Taupō like the locals do.
This is our official information network where you can find out about local attractions, accommodation, transport and anything you may need help with in Taupō. Open Monday-Friday 9am – 4.30pm, weekends 10am-1pm
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Tongariro River Rafting
FAST FACTS GEOTHERMAL HISTORY Lake Taupō sits in the caldera of a volcano which began erupting 300,000 years ago. The caldera formed from a collapse during the Oruanui eruption approximately 27,000 years ago, remarked as the most violent eruption in history, generating 430km3 of ash and deposit covering much of the Central North Island. The eruption responsible for the shape of the modern caldera occurred around
180AD (The Hatepe or Taupō Eruption). It was recorded that ash from the eruption has been found in Greenland and Antarctica, and at the time of the eruption, Ancient Romans and Chinese experienced dark red skies. You can still experience this geothermal history today – visit one of the many geothermal areas in the region, naturally heated hot pools, or dip your toes in hotspots scattered around the lake, just look for the steam!
Lake Taupo is the size of Singapore Its average depth is
110m
Its deepest point is 186m The length of the shoreline is
193km
44km long and 33km wide The lake's volume is
59km3
and it has an area of 616km2
USEFUL INFORMATION
Emergency (police, fire, ambulance): Dial 111
Taupō Airport
HOME 1105 Anzac Memorial Drive, Wharewaka, Taupō
Taupō Police:
Taupō Hospital:
Phone-Square-Alt (07) 378 6060 HOME 21 Story Place
Phone-Square-Alt (07) 376 1000 HOME Kotare St
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YOUR
TONGARIRO ADVENTURE
STARTS HERE
The Ultimate Guide
EST
1993
Spectacular Rapids and Stunning Scenery Jetboat lively rapids through stunning scenery and marvel at the geothermal wonderland along the Waikato River. Take it all in and let excitement wash over you… the sound of the river, the lush native bush surrounding you, the sun sparkling and dancing across the water. From impressive rock faces lining narrow canyons to the drama of the swirling rapids, this is scenery you will never forget.
New Zealand’s Only White-water Jetboating Experience Discover New Zealand’s only white-water jetboating ride and hop on board for a unique experience that you can’t get anywhere else in New Zealand! From top to bottom, you can’t jetboat the rapids anywhere else in the country. Amazing White-water Jetboating
The Perfect Ride for All Ages
Embark on a spectacular jetboating adventure through the Aratiatia rapids and ride the crystal blue waters and tumbling blankets of white on the Waikato River as you shoot up and down the rapids. Play on the water and enjoy the thrill of an experience that will leave you grinning from ear to ear and wanting more.
Whether you are young or just young-at-heart, discover Taupo’s most popular boat ride and enjoy the exhilaration of jetboating the rapids and whitewater, while taking in some of the region’s most stunning scenery. Enjoy the variety and breadth of this unique experience and take home memories that will last a lifetime.
Surging water. Striking scenery. Breathtaking sights. W H Y J U S T TA K E A P H OTO W H E N YO U C A N TA K E A T R I P ?
07 374 8066
info@rapidsjet.com
Nga Awa Purua Rd (off Rapids Road), Aratiatia,Taupo.
C A L L TO B OOK : 0 8 0 0 727 4 37
www.rapidsjet.com
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Must see – Must do
MĀORI ROCK CARVINGS By boat or kayak, the Maori rock carvings in Mine Bay are one of New Zealand’s most extraordinary cultural artworks, towering 14 metres above the water. It’s a favourite spot for locals who love to park up, fish and enjoy some watersports. @sanmari07
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MOUNT RUAPEHU Hit the snow or see the sights! The Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields provide the largest commercial skiing and snowboarding area in New Zealand, with terrains to suit all skill levels and dedicated areas for sledding, tobogganing and tubing. Head to the top of Whakapapa on Sky Waka – New Zealand’s longest gondola – take in awe-inspiring views of the World Heritage National Park, dine at Knoll Ridge Chalet or The Pinnacles, and enjoy one of the various scenic walks.
BOAT FISHING Lake Taupō is a wild trout fishery, with rainbow and brown trout introduced to the lake in the 1800s. You can experience great fishing in all seasons, which is lucky because the only way to taste trout is to catch one yourself. There's nothing more relaxing than chartering a boat for a half or full day, and there's nothing more rewarding and challenging than turning your hand to fly fishing in one of the many rivers. If you’re fortunate to catch one, some Taupō restaurants are happy to cook it for you – just call in advance and remember to take your fishing licence with you.
PUREORA FOREST PARK The most visited and photographed natural attraction in New Zealand. Huka Falls is a must-see from every angle with multiple viewpoints to choose from including Huka Falls River Cruise, that all make watching the 220,000 litres of water gushing through the narrow gorge an absolute spectacle.
Whether it’s for the day or overnight in a DOC hut, Pureora offers some great walks. Waihora Lagoon (off Western Bay Road) is a short, family-friendly walk through a spectacular ancient rainforest to Waihora Lagoon – a small, rain-fed lake in a serene environment (730m / 15mins). Rimu Walk (at the end of Kakaho Road) is a loop walk through dense rimu forest with abundant birdlife (1.7km / 1hr).
Huka Falls River Cruise
lovetaupo.com
HUKA FALLS
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SAIL BARBARY TO THE
Home of Centennial and Tauhara Courses
GOLF Located just 2 minutes drive from town, this is a truly unique venue with two full 18 hole courses to challenge every level of golfer. The clubroom is situated inbetween the two courses offering picturesque 360 degree views of the thermal park and courses.
Māori Rock Carvings
unmatched, unforgettable since 1982
We now have FootGolf as well!
THE CLUBHOUSE Offering full food and beverage services “THE CLUBHOUSE” can cater for up to 200 people and works as a fantastic function venue for weddings, corporate functions, end of year parties. Email caterer@ taupogolf.co.nz for menus and pricing.
live availability
Like FootGolf Taupo on Facebook.
THE TAUPO GOLF COURSE VISITORS WELCOME 32 Centennial Drive, Taupo P 07 378 6933 E proshop@taupogolf.co.nz www.taupogolf.co.nz Club office open 9am–3pm Mon–Fri
0800 eco sail
Quietly incredible NZ’s first commercial electric yacht. No noise, zero emissions. Combined with amusing eco commentary, this is an environmentally friendly adventure on Lake Taupō to the Māori Rock Carvings.
N
GREE N
Come and try this fantastic new sport for yourself!
phone
C E
COMES TO TAUPO A combination of soccer and golf, this game is played with a regular soccer ball and 21-inch diameter cups. The rules largely correspond to the rules of golf – and it’s played throughout the world in many different forms.
sailbarbary.com
CLEA
FOOTGOLF
C H O I
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Family Friendly HU KA P RAW N PAR K Built in 1987 along the banks of the Waikato River, this is an activity park for the whole family! The park is able to breed tropical prawn using waste geothermal heat from the geothermal power station next door. Aside from a geothermally heated foot bath, there is also an educational hatchery tour, prawn fishing, aqua trikes, trout feeding, pedal boats, nature walk, and a restaurant! @ezralennoxandme
M IN I GO L F Fun for all ages and groups, TaupĹ?'s Mini Golf course is a great way to have fun with the family. The beautifully maintained gardens and views of the mountains make it all the more enjoyable. @goodnessgraciouskreft
L AKE CRUISE
L AVA G L ASS
There are many ways to cruise the lake - a steamboat cruise, sailing experience and kayak are just some of the ways the whole family can enjoy a beautiful day out.
Watch the art of glassblowing in action with award-winning master glass artist Lynden Over, explore the magical sculpture garden and enjoy something to eat at the gourmet cafĂŠ. @bwardallphotography
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EBIKECO.CO.NZ
Giving You The Power to Explore
Book a test ride today, we come to you!
0800 770056 Test rides available in Taupo and surrounding areas
.
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Trou t Fishin g Char ters
Kaya ks & SUPs
Jetsk i’s
Sight seein g to the Carv ings
Scheduled sailing to the Māori Rock Carvings and Private charters Why sail with Taupō Sailing Adventures? Sustainable sailing adventures on a classic boat. An enriching and memorable experience, with over 20 years sailing history on Great Lake Taupō.
S PA R E SO R T
Phone or text: 022 697 1586
Email: info@ tauposailingadventures.co.nz
Book online: tauposailingadventures.co.nz
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Tours. Tuition. Retail. Explore. Discover. Capture. Contact us: 54 Spa Road, Taupo 07 378 1003 taupo@canoeandkayak.co.nz
Flightseeing at its best!
Discover NZ’s most scenic & spectacul
ar vistas.
Enjoy a unique flightseeing experience over Tongariro National Park, the Bay of Plenty and, of course, Great Lake Taupō!
BOOK ONLINE NOW
CONTACT US
Visit tauposfloatplane.co.nz to book our scenic flights and packages.
07
TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN TAUPŌ
378 7500 Ferry Road, Boat Wharf, Taupō
facebook.com/tauposfloatplane
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Swimming Spots KINLOCH Kinloch’s large sandy beach, crystal-clear waters and relaxed vibe make it a perfect swimming spot. There’s a pontoon to jump off for the kids and a nearby shop for lunch or an ice cream. @michaela_tait
ACACIA BAY Split into two bays: Acacia Bay North is a family favourite with jumping jetty and pontoon. Around the corner, Acacia Bay South has a boat ramp and many families set up camp on the beach and use this as their base for a day of swimming and watersports.
RANGATIRA PARK TRACK Walk through native bush to the flat rocks at Rangatira Point for a hidden swimming spot. The water is deep here, so keep an eye on the little ones. It’s close enough to Mine Bay to swim to the Maori rock carvings and some popular rocks to jump off. @elisakfb
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FIVE MILE BAY Another great place to take the kids, Five Mile Bay is a lovely swimming beach with plenty of room for everyone, and the added bonus of warm water if you dig down deep enough in the sand! @blueskykiwi
OTUMUHEKE STREAM Located at Spa Thermal Park, warm geothermal waters from Otumuheke Stream, flow gently into the Waikato River, providing a hot spot for bathers to relax in healing mineral water. There are changing facilities and a cafĂŠ onsite.
TAUPO L AKEFRONT It's the obvious swimming spot, so can get very busy, but the lakefront is a quick and easily accessible choice for a play in the lake. It's lined with trees for shade and is shallow for quite some distance, so a safe option for families with little ones. There are also many hot spots around the lake, some you need to dig your toes into the sand to find, but the Hot Water Beach at the lakefront is easy to find. There is a carpark and public toilets almost opposite Mere Road - you can't miss it!
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Come and play at Shawns Playground!
Encounter | Discover | Learn
all things bees!
RIVERSIDE RESTAURANT STAND-UP PADDLE BOARDS AQUA/WATER TRIKES INTERACTIVE WATER ACTIVITIES BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR NATURE WALK/ ACTIVITY LOOP PEDAL BOATS TROUT FEEDING GEOTHERMAL HEATED SEATS PRAWN FISHING And so
much more!
Hands-on beekeeping experience
Learn all about bees
Extract your own jar of honey from the hive!*
60 minute tours in Spring and Summer
$
Child $45, Adult $55, Family $145 *depends on seasonality and conditions
Huka Falls Road, Wairakei hukaprawnpark.co.nz
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FISH TAUPO ABOARD
STRATUS arty
A 28ft Rayglass Legend with
M
FISH / CRUISE / SIGHTSEE IN COMFORT – NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! ALL INCLUSIVE FROM $125 PER HOUR Price for the whole boat, not per person.
Complimentary Light Refreshments Enclosed Toilet Canopy for all weather boating BOOKINGS ENQUIRIES / FREEPHONE
0800 FISHTAUPO (0800 347 482) BERTH #1, Ferry Rd, Taupo Boat Harbour
Helicopter Adventures F R O M $ 9 9 P E R P E R S O N W ITH TAU P Ō ' S LEADING HELICOPTER TOURS PROVIDER
Tongariro National Park
Courtesy vehicle for flights out of Taupō Locally owned & operated
Huka Falls
Lake Taupō
Māori Rock Carvings
P 07 374 8680 E adventure@helicoptertours.co.nz A 415 Huka Falls Road, Taupō Located at the world-famous Huka Falls
Flight times are approximate. Minimum 2 people per flight. Maximum weight limits apply. All flights subject to suitable weather. Helicopter type may vary from that shown.
0508 435 474 FREE PHONE www.helicoptertours.co.nz
+ more!
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Great Walks and Bike Trails WAIKATO RIVER TRAILS
SPA THERMAL PARK Walking and biking trails can get you from Spa Thermal Park to Huka Falls, and even further to Aratiatia Dam. The walking trail is dog friendly, the Aratiatia return walk is approx. 4hrs, and the network of bike trails wind along the Waikato River and connect with Huka Falls, Aratiatia Dam, Wairakei Tourist Park and Craters Mountain Bike Park.  Fraser Clements
Ideal for nature lovers and intermediate riders, this series of trails are a step up and take you through stunning scenery and bridge trails with a rural feel. @awaywiththesteiners
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MOUNT TAUHARA Challenge yourself with this uphill walk through native bush and be rewarded with spectacular 360° views from the summit, overlooking Lake Taupō and the central North Island. lovetaupo.com
CRATERS MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK With up to 50km of trails to suit all abilities, from children’s levels to cross country, experience many rides through exotic pine and eucalyptus plantations, with some stunning views of Lake Taupō and the Waikato River. To ride the park, you must have a pass. You can purchase a visitor pass for $10 (for 7 days) at biketaupo. org.nz or at any local cycle shop (children under 18 years are free with accompanying/paying adult).
@kirsten.s.reid
GREAT L AKE WALKWAY (LION'S WALK) Starting at the Taupō Marina and winding along the lake to Wharewaka Point, this is a favourite stretch for visitors and locals, bikers and walkers. It's dog, pushchair, and wheelchair friendly. Enjoy the views while you walk, the many beaches and bays, children's playgrounds, barbecue facilities, picnic spots and fish and chips lakeside at dusk!
GREAT L AKE TRAIL A 71km one-day or multi-day mountain biking adventure and volcanic discovery through native forest, past waterfalls, over deep gorges and along the shores of Lake Taupo. This purpose-built trail boasts exhilarating downhills, fun switchbacks and cambered berms for an unforgettable single-track experience. @yoryder
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Playground of award-winning glass artist Lynden Over.
Glass Art Sculpture Garden Glassblowing Studio New Zealand Inspired Glass Art Gourmet CafĂŠ
Discover more than 600 glass sculptures in our sculpture garden, the only one of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
Watch our glass artists at work in our glassblowing studio. Every day different designs are being made.
Browse our gallery of unique New Zealand inspired glass art. Our pieces are also available online. We ship worldwide.
Open daily 9am - 5pm 165 SH 5, RD4, Taupo 3384 e: info@lavaglass.nz ph: +64 (0)7 374 8400
www.lavaglass.nz
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Bringing kiwis together since 1973
Welcome
TO COBB&CO. TAUPO 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 are the BEST in town – Traffic Light mocktails are kiwi favourites!
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 à-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
29 Tongariro Street, Taupo
Book online, call or simply come in and see us – across from the gardens with views of the lake.
Open daily from 12pm Phone 07 377 1112 www.cobb.co.nz
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Taupō Towncentre E V E N TS, FA IRS AND TH E C IRCUS! Tongariro North Domain is the hub of community events and festivals, hosting major sporting events, exhibitions, and carnivals. To see what’s on during your stay head to the events page at lovetaupo.com or grab a copy of henrymagazine.nz from reception. @badgalniwa
GIANT CHESSBOARD & THE ROTARY TRAIN Make the indoor board game even more challenging or sit back with a gelato and enjoy watching others! Pop the kids on the McDonalds Rotary Train and enjoy Tongariro Domain with toots and tunnels from the tracks.
KID'S PL AYGROUND Bring the kids when you need time out. With swings, slides, climbs and more, there’s enough to keep them busy while you enjoy your coffee.
GRAFFIATO Taupō’s annual street art festival has brought buildings to life with amazing artwork and you can follow the Graffiato Trail. Search ‘graffiato’ at www.lovetaupo.com to download the brochure and walk your way from one marvellous mural to the next. @holly.couch.photos
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the woolshed
Our range of gifts & clothing include
Sheepskins : Slippers : Mohair throws Possum & Merino knitwear Swanndri : Knitting wools Sheepskin boots
thewoolshednz.co.nz • 07 378 9513 • Cnr Ruapehu & Paora Hapi Sts
We stock a broad range of products including clothing, crystals, sterling silver and gem jewellery, art, souvenirs, body piercings and ornaments. Now stocking EVap and ELiquids. We also carry Nemeses ornaments, statues and fairies as well as artists’ work. A gift for every occasion. We have everything you need for a 21st celebration. Get in touch to see how we can help you. 88 Ruapehu St, Taupo
Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sat 9.30am - 4pm Sun 10am - 3pm /Stardust Creations gift stores stardustwanganui@xtra.co.nz www.stardustcreations.co.nz Ph 07 378 5884
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@holly.couch.photos
Picnic Spots L AKEFRONT With picnic tables, reserves and many open areas, the lakefront is always a favourite picnic spot for locals and visitors who love to savour the stunning views. This long stretch of picnic opportunity means that even in the crowded summer season, you can always find a spot.
KINLOCH Well worth the 15-minute drive from central Taupō. Kinloch is a beautiful place to enjoy lunch by the lake and a swim, there’s a small playground and a café and general store selling takeaways and ice creams. @lewis_sharp95
TAUPŌ MARINA Watch the boats cruise past while you relax on the origins of the Waikato River. The marina has a cafe where the boats berth and via Ferry Road you can access a beautifully grassed area, with picnic tables and stunning views across the lake to the mountains.
L AKE ROTOPOUNAMU One of the district's treasures. Off State Highway 47, south west of Turangi, this small but stunning native forest-cradled lake is a hidden gem with inviting beaches. Bring your swimming gear, set up your picnic and spend the day! The Lake Rotopounamu Track circles the lake and is a is a special favourite of tree lovers, birdwatchers, and families. @outdoorkidnz
WHAREWAKA POINT With a playground, lake access and undercover barbecues, Wharewaka Point is a pleasant reserve with plenty of space, situated 7km from the town centre. It sweeps round to Five Mile Bay, another popular swimming spot.
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CAFÉ AND GALLERY
Licensed café . All day breakfasts Delicious menu . Gluten free range All made fresh on-site . Functions Unique Gallery set in peaceful garden setting
L’Arté Café has Allpress coffee, local wines and beers with service that will be enjoyed by all. With New Zealand’s finest produce L’Arté’s kitchen team prepare everything fresh on site from home-made bread, pesto and beetroot relish
Wa k e
man R
d
Mapara Rd
The Gallery is set in the Magical Garden filled with art.
255 Mapara Rd, Acacia Bay, Taupo 10 mins drive from Taupo centre OPEN WED - SUN / 8AM - 4PM
2.5km to L’Arte
Acacia Bay Rd
Acacia Bay Turn Off
Shop
LAKE TAUPO
Lake Terrace
Acacia Bay Rd 1
Town Centre
1
(Open every day during January and most public holidays)
PHONE O7 378 2962 www.larte.co.nz
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10% OFF TAKEAWAYS
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A RETAIL STORE WITH A MODERN ECLECTIC VIBE
TAUPO HOBBIES AND TOYS Discover a wonderland of fun and creativity Visit us! 4 Gascoigne Street, Taupo (07) 378 0530 Your go to shop for that special gift, be it a birthday, wedding or baby gift. Lovely range of homewares, soft furnishings, handbags,leisure wear, jewellery and much more.
Taupo Hobbies
@taupohobbiesandtoys
A 9 Heuheu Street, Taupo P 07 3789326 E collaborationtaupo@gmail. W collaboration.net.nz
We have a huge range of vehicles to suit every need. Whether you need a car for work or pleasure, short-term or long term we are here to help. nga Runa
t nui S Orua
t hau S Nuku
ST IRO AR NG TO
RE WE A HERE
Gascoigne
RD SPA Paora Hapi St
Visit us at 7 Nukuhau St Taupo Phone: 07 37 82740 Email: taupo@radcarhire.co.nz
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Selfie Spots
Huka Falls
Tongariro Alpine Crossing @zoeswearman
Mount Tauhara @corinna_rahm
Bulli Point
@amandabeets
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Skin Sanctuary day spa & beauty therapy
Services
unwind take some ‘you’ time
be pampered let the world pass you by
Living Rewards
Brands
Life Pharmacy Taupo 35-37 Heu Heu Street, Taupo Phone: +64 (7) 378 6100 Fax: +64 (7) 378 6101 Email: taupo@lifepharmacy.co.nz Store Hours Mon - Fri: Sat: Sun:
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Brantry Eatery offers a contemporary New Zealand inspired menu, using the freshest quality & seasonal produce. Based at Brantry House, a charming character house, home also to Zea You Gallery.
ZeaYou is proud to represent established and emerging artists and artisans from throughout New Zealand.
45 Rifle Range Road, Taupō 07 378 0484 www.thebrantry.co.nz
While visiting Brantry House you can visit the Eatery and enjoy food, wine, coffee and art. Parking is on site, so make this your next destination in Taupō
Lunch (Friday – Sunday) from 11 am – 2pm Dinner from 5:30pm
Brantry House – Top Floor 45 Rifle Range Road, Taupō 027 278 1362 www.zeayou.com Open: Mon – Fri 10 am – 4pm Thur – Sat 6pm – 8pm Sat 10am – 3pm Sun 11am – 2pm
Home of your Indoor and Outdoor decorating needs
MCF Interiors and InExteriors 31 and 38 Heuheu Street, Taupo
Supporting NZ and International Designers
www.mcfinteriors.co.nz PH 07-377 6022
Homeware | Indoor & Outdoor Furnishings | Gifts | Art & Much More
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Everything you need for your kitchen
9 Marama Arcade, Taupo
t 07 376 5660 e shop@thelinenroom.co.nz
www.thelinenroom.co.nz
Best fabric selection
in the Central North Island
over
1500
fabrics in store
Anything is possible FIND US 11 Gascoigne Street, Taupo | ď‚• 07 377 4455 SHOP ONLINE www.chefscomplements.co.nz
A: 30 Tamamutu Street, Taupo P: 07 376 5965
E: info@theeyeofaneedle.co.nz W: www.theeyeofaneedle.co.nz
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TON G AR I RO R I V ER TRAI L
Walk or ride, this is an easy (grade 2) mainly flat track with multiple entry points so it’s great for children and beginner riders to enjoy. The scenic loop trail winds through stunning native bush with views of the Tongariro River.. @emilyandoli
Southern Lake Taupō The picturesque townships at the southern end of Lake Taupō are the gateway to the Volcanic Loop Highway and provide a vibrant yet quaint destination for outdoor lovers.
TOK AAN U THER M AL WAL K Located in the village of Tokaanu, this is a great option for kids and families – a short, easy walk amongst steaming hot mineral pools, spluttering mud and native bush. In the cold Tokaanu stream that flows beside the thermal area, keep your eyes peeled for a rainbow trout!
F LY F I S HI N G L AK E ROTO P O UN A MU TRACK Nestled on the side of Mt Pihanga, this is a 5km loop track that circles the lake with numerous picnic and rest spots along the way. Popular with birdwatchers, you’re likely to spot kaka, kereru and falcon. The lake is also a popular swimming spot and boasts crystal-clear waters. @calevchandra
Turangi is renowned as an angler’s paradise in any season from any of the many tributaries. Chat to locals about the best spots or hire a fly-fishing guide to show you the way and the how. @co_adventures
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SANCTUARY RETREAT TOKAANU
Meet our family of animals. The Oasis Sanctuary borders the Tokaanu Reserve and Waihi Ranges. Take a leisurely walk hand feeding Beamer the Yak or Comet the Fallow Deer. Soak in our soothing geothermal pools before finishing with a freshly brewed coffee and a piece of cake plus hot chips for the kids.
Restaurant ~ Mineral Pools ~ Animal Farm Oasis Motel 426 Tokaanu Rd, Tokaanu 3353, 07 386 8569
turtle pools
‘Let’s wander where the WiFi is weak’
The indoor heated aquatic centre offers something for everyone in one location! › 25m lane pool (1.1m deep) › Bombing/aquarobics pool (1.8m deep) › Learners’ pool (0.9m deep with disability hoist chair) › Toddlers’ pool
Dual Heritage Tongariro National Park
› New 3.5m high aquatic climb wall
Shuttle Times
Open every day except Christmas Day. Ohuanga Rd, Turangi
Taupō District Council
07 376 0414
taupo.govt.nz
Departures: 6am, 7am, 8am, 9am, 10am PH: 07 892 2993 • $40pp return • 100% refundable
tongarirocrossingshuttles.co.nz
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Tokaanu Thermal Pools where fire meets water
Chateau Tongariro Hotel
Soak, soothe and relax in the magical mineral waters
Hiked the Tongariro Alpine Crossing? Skied the slopes of Mt Ruapehu? We invite you to come and relax in the soothing and therapeutic waters of the hot thermal springs of Tokaanu. + Private mineral pools 10 am - 9 pm. + Large public pool 10 am - 9 pm. + Preschoolers splash pool.
free thermal bush walk
Open 7 days
(20 min return)
While you are with us, take a short walk around our natural thermal area. See steaming hot mineral pools set in sinter basins, and spluttering mud pots amongst attractive native bush.
There's possibly no building in New Zealand as iconic as the Chateau Tongariro Hotel. The striking neo-Georgian architecture of the grand old lady is beautiful to behold, sitting gracefully inside the world heritage Tongariro National Park. Surrounded by some of New Zealand’s best walks and the sacred peaks of Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro, the Chateau is the perfect location for an alpine retreat. Many visitors spend a couple of nights to make the most of its offerings. Hike the world renowned Tongariro Alpine Crossing, or in winter, hit the slopes of Mt Ruapehu – there are options aplenty. What is also special about the Chateau is that it truly accommodates everyone. Many Kiwis often remark about how affordable it is to spend a night, two – even a week! And, for those with the flexibility to stay midweek outside peak summer and winter periods, the savings are even greater.
www.tokaanuthermalpools.co.nz
Check website for entry fees and any scheduled closures. Children under 5 yrs free. Open every day except Christmas day. Mangaroa Street, Tokaanu, Turangi | (07) 386 8575
A Tongariro National Park T 0800 242 832 W www.chateau.co.nz
Looking for a real taste of the Chateau? The sumptuous High Tea service is the perfect way for day guests to experience the grandeur of the property and bask in its stunning surrounds. The Chateau High Tea marks a decades-old tradition of meeting with friends for champagne, finger sandwiches, delicate sweets and gourmet fresh teas. Piano melodies and era music floats through the Ruapehu Lounge sending the guest back to 1929 when the Chateau Tongariro was first built. Chateau High Tea is available daily from 11am – 5pm for $45 per person. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options are available. For more information on the hotel or to book your stay visit: www.chateau.co.nz
The Ultimate Guide
JOURNEY ABOVE THE CLOUDS. MTRUAPEHU.COM/SKY-WAKA
.NZ
JOURNEY ABOVE THE CLOUDS WITH SKY WAKA
SKY
WA
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.CO
Situated in the dual world heritage Tongariro National Park, Sky Waka travels 1.8kms through one of the North Island’s most rugged and spectacular landscapes on Whakapapa, Mt Ruapehu.
ARRIVE IN STYLE AT THE PINNACLES RESTAURANT Savour your meal alongside breath-taking views through floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking The Pinnacles and the valley below. Enjoy a bu et lunch at the highest restaurant in New Zealand at 2,020m above sea level.
WORLD FAMOUS SHORT WALKS, INCLUDING MEADS WALL (LORD OF THE RINGS FILMING LOCATION) On your arrival at the Knoll Ridge Chalet via The Sky Waka, an array of scenic short walks await you. With the ever popular Waterfalls Descent & Skyline walks, the latter taking hikers up to 2,300m for breathtaking views of Mt Ngauruhoe, Lake Taupo & beyond...
$39 ADULTS, $19 YOUTH, CHILDREN UNDER 5 FREE. WAKA+LUNCH COMBO $59 ADULTS, $35 YOUTH
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The Ultimate Guide
Volcanic Loop Highway South of Taupō, an entirely new playground awaits – the unspoilt, raw, alpine landscape of the Dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park.
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he 79,596-hectare park is home to the renowned Tongariro Alpine Crossing and the most dominant, breathtaking features of the North Island: Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Tongariro. Approximately one million people visit Tongariro National Park each year, and while the ski fields draw significant crowds in the winter,
TON G ARIRO A LPIN E CROSSIN G Cold mountain springs, herb fields, lava flows, active craters, steam vents, emerald coloured lakes, and spectacular volcanic terrain scenery are just some of what you can experience on New Zealand’s best one-day hike. The 17km trek takes approx. 6-8 hours to complete. @somethinglikejulia
there are actually more visitors in the summer, due to the increasingly popular walking and hiking trails. Surrounding this stunning scenic area is the Volcanic Loop Highway, your road to adventure, and the best route to access everything in the Central Plateau.
The Ultimate Guide
FORGOT T E N WO RL D HIGHWAY A 150km driving journey, the Forgotten World Highway is a remote, mysterious path built on colonial bridle paths formed in the late 19th century. Experience a natural roller coaster experience over four mountain saddles, through an eerie one-lane tunnel and along a sinuous river gorge. @ondruskovagab
DESE RT ROAD The barren-like road through the Rangipo Desert is just east of the three mountains. Mostly tussock and snow grasses, the area resembles a desert due to poor soil quality, drying winds and the mass sterilisation of seeds during a series of violent eruptions. @lowedownz
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History...
Without the Boring Bits Pictured here is Lulu the black hen, a much loved pet of the New Zealand 6th Field Ambulance during WWII, providing the troops with a much needed distraction from the horrors of war. This and many other stories await in the world-class National Army Museum Te Mata Toa in Waiouru. Housed adjacent to New Zealand’s largest military training camp, the Museum is well known for its extensive collection of military memorabilia from Victoria Cross medals in its large Medal Repository, to the iconic military vehicles, weapons and artillery, research library and archives. This is the perfect place to stop on your journey
A State Highway 1, Waiouru T 06 387 6911 E armymuseum@nzdf.mil.nz W armymuseum.co.nz
through the Central Plateau. Stories of honour, courage and sacrifice the museum follows the campaigns of the New Zealand Army and you will get an insight into how conflict has helped shape our nation. The fortress-like building cannot be missed at the southern end of Waiouru township, a one and a half hour drive south of Taupō. Guided tours come highly recommended and are offered daily between 10am and 2pm. Families are catered for with the authentically designed Kids HQ play space and the military themed café, The Mess Tent, plus an array of gifts and souvenirs at the Quartermaster Store.