This time the round trip went to the southwest of Rotorua. There lies a completely different looking landscape than on the eastern coast, with high mountains of volcanoes and centrally Lake Taupo, which ultimately also forms the caldera of a supervolcano. So I drove from Rotorua towards Taupo, around it and finally also around Mt Ruapehu, the highest mountain of the North Island and back to Rotorua.
In the very heart of New Zealand’s North Island lies a vast inland sea – Lake Taupō, the largest lake in the country and one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of Aotearoa. Formed by one of the most powerful volcanic eruptions in history nearly 2,000 years ago, Lake Taupō is more than just a body of water. It’s a place where geothermal forces shape the land, where adventure meets tranquility, and where visitors discover both ancient Māori legends and modern Kiwi hospitality. In this video, we take you on a journey around Lake Taupō, exploring its landscapes, activities, and hidden treasures.
The lake itself is enormous – about the size of Singapore – with crystal-clear waters framed by forested hills and volcanic peaks. On a calm day, the surface mirrors the surrounding mountains, including the snow-capped summits of Tongariro, Ngāuruhoe, and Ruapehu, part of the central plateau’s dramatic skyline. These views remind you that Taupō is not only a lake but part of a living volcanic landscape.
The town of Taupō, sitting on the northeastern shore, is the hub for exploring the region. Here, cafés, shops, and waterfront promenades make for a lively atmosphere, while adventure companies line the streets offering everything from skydiving to lake cruises. The town also connects you to Māori culture, with local carvings, art galleries, and stories tied deeply to the land and waters of the lake.
One of the highlights of Lake Taupō is a boat trip or kayak journey to the Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings. Created in the late 20th century by master carver Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell, these massive cliff carvings depict Ngātoroirangi, a legendary Māori navigator. Accessible only by water, the site is a modern expression of ancient traditions, blending artistry, spirituality, and the natural setting into an unforgettable experience.
Just outside the town lies the roaring Huka Falls, one of New Zealand’s most visited natural attractions. Here, the mighty Waikato River – the only outlet of Lake Taupō – narrows dramatically before plunging into a foaming cascade of turquoise water. The sheer force of the falls is mesmerizing, a reminder of the power locked within this volcanic landscape.
The geothermal character of the region adds another layer of wonder. Hot springs and thermal pools bubble just beneath the surface, offering places to soak and relax. The Craters of the Moon thermal area is a surreal landscape of steaming vents, bubbling mud, and sulfuric scents – a glimpse into the restless earth beneath your feet.
For those who love adventure, Lake Taupō is a playground. The lake itself is perfect for sailing, kayaking, and fishing – especially for world-famous trout. On land, trails like the Great Lake Pathway offer easy lakeside walks, while mountain bikers flock to the region’s world-class tracks. Taupō is also a gateway to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, often described as the best one-day hike in New Zealand, taking you across volcanic craters, emerald lakes, and lava flows.
Yet Lake Taupō is just as much about peace as it is about thrill. Sunset over the lake paints the sky in shades of gold and red, mirrored on the still water. The sound of waves lapping on the shore, the laughter of locals fishing at dusk, and the sight of stars filling the night sky all remind you why this place is special.
Practical tips: Lake Taupō is easily accessible by road, located between Rotorua and Tongariro National Park. The town of Taupō offers a wide range of accommodation, from campgrounds to luxury lodges. Allow at least two to three days to fully experience the lake, falls, thermal areas, and surrounding mountains – though many travelers find themselves staying much longer.
Lake Taupō is more than a destination – it’s an experience that weaves together natural power, cultural depth, and outdoor adventure. Whether you come to hike volcanic trails, cruise to rock carvings, soak in hot springs, or simply watch the sunrise over calm waters, Taupō has a way of leaving its mark on every visitor. It is, in every sense, the beating heart of New Zealand’s North Island.
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