Welcome to Taupō
Hot news: Taupō is one of the the most welcoming places on Earth* according to Booking.com travellers. Awesomely topping that off, CNN listed Taupō in the 25 best places to visit (on Earth) in 2025*.
Winter is when our warmth really shines. From friendly lakeside smiles to steamy hot pools, you’ll feel Taupō’s welcome the moment you arrive.
This season, Taupō is ready to welcome you to incredible landscapes, crisp air, glowing sunsets, and the unforgettable moments that only a Taupō winter can bring.
*As voted by Booking.com Traveller Review Awards 2025.
*CNN’s ‘Best Destinations to Visit’ in 2025.
You're welcome
Best friends
Get together for your perfect escape. Girls’ weekend or mates’ time-out. Pampering and pure relaxation, golf, fishing, hanging out—your choice of whatever rocks your boat.
Active relaxers
Endless trails and walkways for bikers and hikers—along the waterside, through geothermal wonders, into the hills, and peaceful wanders along a superbly picturesque lakeside.
Ridiculous romantics
Pamper yourselves. Taupō was made for special moments. Candlelit dinners, alpine sunsets, and steamy hot pools set the scene for winter getaways that bring you closer—quite naturally.
Fur babies
Bring the whole whānau—pooches and paws included. Taupō rolls out the welcome mat with dog-friendly cafés, lakeside walks, and pet-welcoming stays destined to make tails wag all winter long.
Good mates
Swing your escape to where roads are quieter, the air’s fresher, the turf’s firmer and the ball flies true. Two top courses and plenty more ensure Taupō is a golfer’s dream.
Dedicated shoppers
Taupō’s boutique scene is big on charm. Discover handcrafted treasures, curated fashion, and homewares you won’t find anywhere else—proving that retail therapy is even better with lake views.
Famished foodies
Winter’s best flavours and warm-ups are found fireside. Sip spiced mulled wine, tuck into hearty local fare, and discover cafés, bars and bistros that warm the soul and fuel adventures.
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Bold adventurers
Snow-dusted peaks, wild rivers, wide open skies. Winter in Taupō brings on the fun. From skiing at Whakapapa to white-water rafting and skydiving over Lake Taupō—let the bold come out to play.
Chilled-out relaxers
Unwind in Taupō’s geothermal hot pools—from silica terrace soaks to riverside retreats and family-friendly fun, there’s a serene, soul-warming spot waiting just for you this winter.
Whānau explorers
Whānau fun doesn’t stop with the weather. From climbing walls and escape rooms to hot pools and museums, Taupō’s got your crew covered—rain or shine.
Water lovers
From fishing retreats and scenic boat tours to soaking in soothing hot pools, discover a rejuvenating escape. Enjoy breathtaking views, great company, and unforgettable moments on the water this winter.
Newlyweds
Unwind in Taupō’s geothermal hot pools—from silica terrace soaks to riverside retreats and family-friendly fun, there’s a serene, soul-warming spot waiting just for you this winter.