The Luxury Travel Guide to Taupo

© Chris Jolly Outdoors - Destination Great Lake Taupō (www.lovetaupo.com)

Luxury Adventure Activities

Taupo is often referred to as the “Adventure Capital of the North Island” and for good reason.

Not only can you experience adrenaline with an overwater bungy jump with Taupo Bungy, but you can skydive from 3,658 m (12,000 ft) over the Great Lake with Tandem Skydiving. You get incredible views of the lake and the Central North Island volcanoes, and travel to the base in style in a Hummer limousine.

Mountain biking is also of a big deal in Taupo, whose lake offers many exciting sections to ride known as the Great Lake Trail. Hit the trails independently following the information we give in the 10 Awesome Bike Trails Around Lake Taupo.

Alternatively, join Social Nature Movement for a guided cycling excursion from Spa Park to Aratiatia. Revel in stunning vistas of native forests and geothermal wonders, pausing at the Otumuheke Stream thermal area for a soak in natural hot pools. The highlight is witnessing the dramatic Huka Falls and Aratiatia Dam release.

And for something less strenuous, don’t miss Taupo’s reputed golf courses. Some of the country’s most prestigious courses are right here, from the tussock-lined fairways of the Kinloch Golf Club to the unique predator-free wildlife refuge of the Wairakei Golf and Sanctuary. The Wairakei Resort Taupo 9-hole golf course and Taupo Golf Club also make for some fun challenges in a more casual environment.

For more on Taupo’s premium adventures, including lake cruises, trout fishing, skiing, scenic flights and more, check out the 10 Luxury Activities in Taupo.

© Felicity Witters1 - Destination Great Lake Taupō (www.lovetaupo.com)

Luxury All-weather Activities

It hardly matters what the weather is doing when you’re in the cosmopolitan hub of Taupo awash in art galleries, premium eateries and spa experiences.

Indulge in the geothermal mineral-rich waters of Taupo’s hot springs at one of the fabulous hot pool complexes. A top choice is Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort featuring two large outdoor mineral hot pool with inviting waterfalls, hydrotherapy spots and surrounded by attractive landscaping.

Relax on the water airbeds while absorbing views of the Onekeneke Valley or retreat to one of the indoor private pools. There’s also a day spa on-site should you need some extra pampering.

Another hot pool worth mentioning is the Wairakei Terraces, which also includes a walkway to an astonishing geothermal terrace display.

When exploring around Taupo, be sure to inspire yourself at the local art galleries. A highlight is Lava Glass, home to an amazing sculpture garden and studio where you can easily spend half a day browsing the 600 sculptures in the gardens and relaxing with a locally-roasted coffee and the cafe.

Alternatively, L’Arte Cafe and Gallery treats the senses with impressive mosaic sculptures and a cafe serving a fabulous selection of New Zealand wines and beer.

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Fine Dining in Taupo

Taupo has its fair share of exquisite eateries, but some of the finest dining establishments, to choose for a special occasion or “just because”, can be found in Taupo’s luxury accommodations.

It doesn’t come more lavish than Huka Lodge (Huka Falls Road), set on the banks of the mighty Waikato River. Dine in the Main Lodge to indulge in fabulously-presented plates made with the finest New Zealand ingredients.

The lodge also has 20 romantic indoor and outdoor private dining venues to enhance the experience. Huka Lodge mainly caters to guests, so book ahead to see if they can fit you in for a dining experience.

At the Hilton Lake Taupo (80-100 Napier Road) enjoy elevated views of the town, lake and all the way to the Tongariro National Park volcanoes from Bistro Lago.

The elegant restaurant’s menu has been designed by celebrity Chef Gareth Stewart and focusses on bringing you the best the local region has to offer. Dine for breakfast, lunch, dinner and high tea.

Finally, a little closer to town but with an unbeatable lakeside location, the Edgewater Restaurant of the Millennium Hotel Lake Taupo (243 Lake Terrace) serves European cuisine with personal service and the views, taste and presentation to impress.

For more recommendations, take a look at The Foodie Guide to Taupo.