When you think of the Lake Taupo region, Think Fresh .... as in fresh air, snow, trout, rivers, lakes, people, fun, food, attitudes. Explore our world and discover a fresh new holiday destination, a vibrant place to do business and a lifestyle unique in New Zealand.

From a clean blue lake, to the breathtaking fury of the Huka Falls, there is something for everyone at Destination Lake Taupo. Located at the heart of New Zealand's North Island, the Lake Taupo district is an area of considerable beauty and diversity, offering a wide range of activities, adventures and scenic opportunities.

Often described as the jewel in the crown of the North Island, Lake Taupo is set amidst clean, green countryside, spectacular mountain scenery, beautiful native bush and some of the largest pine forests in the Southern Hemisphere. The area's lakes and rivers are very popular for a variety of both winter and summer water sports, including sailing, water skiing and jet boating, with its neighbouring countryside providing the perfect environment for a number of land sports, including mountain biking and hiking.

The region has long been known as the trout fishing capital of the world, offering some of the best angling in New Zealand for rainbow and brown trout, in both the lake and its two major rivers - the Tongariro and the Waikato. There are dozens of smaller streams and lakes to be found in the area, one of which recently yielded the largest trout caught in the region in the last ten years.Boats of every kind are available at the boat harbour for charter, with skippers who always know the best place to catch the big one. If you want to get a bit closer to nature, a fly fishing guide will take you into some of the more isolated stretches of river to find that elusive trout.

Meanwhile, the area is increasingly becoming known as the adventure capital of the North Island, and is renowned for its variety of adrenalin pumping activities such as bungy jumping, white water rafting and jet boating.

Not only does Lake Taupo have a growing reputation as an action packed destination, the region's operators also place great emphasis on maintaining high safety standards. Come winter, the region comes to life as a ski destination, ideally located just a short drive from Mt Ruapehu and Whakapapa skifield - the largest ski area in New Zealand - offering a variety of runs perfect for both skiing and snow boarding at a beginners to advanced level. If you need a break from the ski field, 65 different activities between Taupo and Mt Ruapehu means you can always find something else to do. The Lake Taupo region is also famous for its proximity to a unique attraction - the opportunity to witness a live volcano in action - Mt Ruapehu.

Thermal activity elsewhere in the region includes natural hot pools and springs, Craters of the Moon - a 30 minute walk around steaming craters and boiling mud pools, and Orakei Korako - a hidden valley of silica terraces and leaping geysers.

From the excitement of a volcanic plateau, to the clean, green environment, Lake Taupo also offers a variety of activities which allow you to get close to nature. Explore the delta wetlands by boat at the southern end of the lake, or challenge yourself to the Tongariro Crossing - a scenic trek through some of the most spectacular volcanic scenery in the country.

Suggested 7 Day Itinerary
Travelling using the Thermal Explorer & Pacific Coact Highways

Day 1 - Depart Auckland heading south to the Waikato and experience it's full range of adventure activities, casino and river cruises. Overnight in the Waikato in one of the large range of quality hotels, motels or luxury bed & breakfasts.

Day 2 - Head from the Waikato to the thermal wonderland of Rotorua and the spiritual home of the Maori. Choose from a wide range of activities - including white water rafting, Maori cultural tours including traditional Hangi feasts, or a relaxing day cruising on one of Rotorua's many lakes with the option of trout fishing. At the end of the day relax in one of Rotorua's famous thermal hot pools. Overnight in Rotorua choosing from one of the many accommodation options.

Day 3 - Continue south along the Thermal Explorer Highway to Lake Taupo where you can take leisurely walks around Lake Taupo, or catch rainbow trout in the adjoining lakes and streams. For the adrenalin junkies there are a number of options including jet boating, skydiving and white water rafting. Taupo is a short drive to Mt Ruapehu ski fields and the Tongiriro National Park. Overnight in Taupo in one of Taupo's accommodation options.

Day 4 - Follow the historic heritage trail to the sunny Hawkes Bay wine country. Travel into Napier, the art deco city and visit some of New Zealand's finest wineries and vineyards and experience the exciting taste of the local cuisine. Hastings & Napier boast a full range of luxury lodges and international standard acommodation.

Day 5 - Join the Pacific Coast Hightway heading north back through rugged coastlines steeped in Maori and European heritage to the Bay of Plenty. In the Bay of Plenty visit the famous White Island, one of the world's most accessible volcanoes. Or just relax on the white sand surf beaches of Mt Maunganui. The Bay of Plenty offers a variety of adventure activities including the opportunity to swim with the dolphins. Overnight in the Bay of Plenty with a choice of boutique hotel, luxury lodge accommodation, or self catering apartments.

Day 6 - Follow the Pacific Coast Highway through orchards and coastline to the mountainous peninsula which is the Coromandel. Steeped in rich history of the past goldmining era, with pottery and art studios along the way. Overnight in Coromandel.

Day 7 - Follow the Seabird Coast back to Auckland.