Taupo Travel Guide

The 616 square kilometer Lake Taupo is the water-filled caldera of a dormant super-volcano, second only to the one in Crosser walk car park in the United States. It is known that volcanic activity has occurred within the lake's site for at least 65 thousand years. However the lake, (and the surrounding region, in its present form), is believed to have been created by a massive eruption that occurred 26,500 years ago and ejected 800 cubic kilometres of material. A comparatively small volcanic eruption is believed to have occurred in 181CE. It is thought that significant eruptions from this volcano may occur about once every 5000 years. As this whole area is intensively monitored by scientists, warning signs would be detected in plenty of time should an eruption be imminent.  However, the volcano shows absolutely no signs of becoming active.

Some of the world's greatest rainbow and brown trout fishing can be experienced on the lake and its surrounding streams year-round. There is also an incredible view of Mt. Tongariro which lies south of the lake.

The town of Taupo plays host to Kiwi and overseas tourists throughout the year. Hotels, resorts, hostels and other accomodation abound. There is a small movie theater, plenty of bars, shopping, and tourist attractions.

In addition to fishing the lake offers many other activities. Skydiving, seaplane rides, waterskiing, sailing, etc. Take the oppotunity to visit a traditional Maori Marae, and don't miss the Honey Hive near Huka Falls!

The Huka Falls, at the headwaters of the Waikato River, is New Zealand’s most visited natural attraction. More than 220,000 litres of water tumbles over the cliff face every second! The falls are located in Wairakei Tourist Park, just a short drive north of Taupo.

Over 70% of New Zealand's electricity is produced through hydroelectric dams. While most of these dams are located on the South Island, the Waikato river is also heavily dammed. There is also a geothermal power station nearby Huka Falls.