Central Park New Zealand

The Lake Taupo region is one of the most popular destinations for holiday makers and International visitors, offering spectacular scenery and an abundance of adventure activities, it is no wonder that year after year, thousands of people flock to the area. The lake side township of Taupo is the ideal base for exploring the central North Island, offering convenient access too many of the region’s most popular destinations and activities. A highly active geothermal region, visitors can experience nature at its best, the lake itself is a crater formed by one of the the largest volcanic eruptions in known history with reports of the ash from it causing the sky to glow red as far as Rome and China.

Orakei Korako or the Hidden Valley as it is otherwise known, consists of three large silica terraces and encompasses boiling springs, mud pools and geysers. It is one of the most unpredictable and active thermal areas in the region and is only accessible by boat, crossing the Waikato River.

Regarded as the events capital of New Zealand, the Lake Taupo region hosts annual events such as the International Ironman, the country’s largest one day event attracting competitors from thirty eight nations, while the Wattyl Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge sees ten thousand riders take part in completing the 160km ride around the lake.

For those after an adrenalin rush, Taupo is definitely the place to visit, from jet boating through the rapids of the mighty Waikato River, being totally submerged in water on New Zealand’s highest water touch bungy, to skydiving from 15,000 feet over the lake. If that all seems a little much, there are plenty of more relaxing activities to partake in. A Chartered Cruise is one of the best ways to really get an understanding of just how vast the lake really is and there are several operators who offer this. With secluded, white pumice sand bays, 360 degree views and the reflective waters mirroring the majestic mountains, a cruise on the lake makes for a romantic setting or a fun day out on the water with friends and family. Whether kayaking to the famed Maori rock carvings or playing a round at the world class Wairakei International Golf Course, there really is something for everyone.

Renowned for its numerous volcanic and forest treks such as the Kawakawa Bay track in Kinloch and the W2K track stretching from Kinloch to Whakaipo Bay, the area is very popular for walkers, runners and mountain bikers.
Lake Taupo and the surrounding streams and rivers like the Tongariro are world famous for trout fishing with both Brown and Rainbow trout in abundance. A number of fly fishing guides operate in the area and will have you reeling in a prized catch, whether an experienced angler or a beginner, there is something to suit people of all abilities and at the end of the day you can enjoy the spoils without having to get your hands dirty as many of the local restaurants will cook it for you.

As popular with backpackers as it is the luxury traveler, Taupo boasts a bustling nightlife, accommodation options to suit all budgets, a diverse range of restaurants and cafes and some of the most stunning scenery in the world.

• Introducing Taupo
• World-renowned trout fishing
• The Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge
• Bonita Ironman New Zealand Triathlon | Lake Taupo – 5th March 2011
• Exploring New Zealand’s volcanic Ruapehu region