Lake Taupo New Zealand,: Official Website of Destination Lake Taupo.

Arts Culture Heritage

New Zealand's Origins

Lake Taupo has a proud history and heritage built around the Tangata Whenua (people of the land) and the early European settlement of missionaries and the armed constabulary. This is a history of the earliest traditions and legends with many stories dating from pre-european history.

Embrace and enjoy the local maori who have inherited from their ancestors the stories and whakapapa of the Ngatoroirangi and Ngati Tuwharetoa. Come and explore contemporary maori hosting adventure activities, the iconic kapa haka (dance) and hangi (traditional maori feast served from an earth oven) product.

Experience the culture of Taupo today, its galleries, museum, cafes, restaurants, tourism, shops, and thriving business centre.

All prices subject to change. Seasonal rates may apply.

Taupo Museum

In the heart of Taupo

Taupo Museum is home to a blend of heritage and culture; from yesterday’s historic treasures to today’s contemporary art. Situated in the heart of Taupo, our museum and art gallery offers visitors an opportunity to celebrate both art and history in one ideal location

Pure NZ Ora Garden

2004 Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal

The remarkable garden containing geothermal silica terraces with steaming hot water pools reminiscent of natural features found in the central North Island has been re-created in Taupo. A fantastic new attractions for Taupo.

History, Heritage, Culture

Tangata Whenua History

Lake Taupo has a proud history and heritage built around Tangata Whenua (people of the land). The earliest traditions and legends, the stories of pre European history, contemporary Maori of today alongside a multi cultural community make up the diverse representaion of this region.

100% Pure New Zealand Ora Garden

Taupo

A: Taupo Museum, Story Place
P: +64 7 376 0414
W: Visit website

Pure Ora Garden-Garden of Wellbeing, located at the Taupo Museum. The garden won gold at the Chelsea Flower Show in London and is based around a Maori Legend about mythical guardians of the land.

Taupo Museum

Taupo

A: Story Place
P: +64 7 376 0414
F: +64 7 378 9150
E: Send email
W: Visit website

Displays depict history and growth of the Lake Taupo region and includes the historic Reid carving collection and prize winning Pure Ora Garden. Art displays change regularly. Open 10am to 4.30pm. Closed Xmas Day and Good Friday.

New Zealand Woodcraft

Taupo

A: Wairakei Tourist Park
P: +64 7 374 8555
F: +64 7 374 8515
E: Send email
W: Visit website

Chris and Joan Guy turn some of the most stunning native New Zealand woods. Chris, a true artisan, has been woodturning for the past 20 years, and Joan more recently.

Pureora Forest Park

Mangakino

A: Pureora Forest Park
P: +64 7 878 1080,
F: +64 7 878 1081
E: Send email
W: Visit website

Pureora Forest Park is a hidden wonderland of tall trees and rare wildlife. A range of accommodation is available with many walking and tramping tracks to explore the area. Postal bookings, Department of Conservation, RD7, Te Kuiti.

Zea You Gallery

Taupo

A: Cnr Heu Heu & Ruapehu Sts
P: +64 7 378 1361
F: +64 7 378 1361
E: Send email
W: Visit website

Contemporary New Zealand art - original paintings, sculpture, ceramics, wood, bronze, glass, jewellery and interior design by New Zealand artists. In-house museum and conservation framing by Fine Arts Trade Guild commended Framer. Open 7 days.

Replete Café

Taupo

A: 45 Heu Heu St
P: +64 7 377 3011
F: +64 7 378 7896
E: Send email
W: Visit website

Replete has been showing Des Robertshaw’s work since the cafe opened in 1993. In this time Des has become well known throughout New Zealand. He is also represented in Sydney and New York.

Whirinaki Forest Park

Taupo

A: Whirinaki Forest Park
P: +64 7 366 1080
F: +64 7 366 1082

This forest park is situated north east of Taupo.

Wildwood Gallery

Taupo

A: 141 State Highway 1
P: +64 7 377 0469
F: +64 7 377 0469
E: Send email
W: Visit website

Robbie’s original woodturning uses a variety of native and exotic woods. He creates uniquely designed art pieces with a beautiful finish. Sue’s vibrant watercolour paintings are inspired by the natural beauty of N Z scenery, flora, fauna and still lif

Kaimanawa Forest Park

Turangi

A: Kaimanawa Forest Park
P: +64 7 386 8607

This forest park is situated east of Taupo and Turangi.

Tongariro National Park

Mt Ruapehu/Tongariro

A: Tongariro National Park
P: +64 7 892 3729
F: +64 7 892 3814
E: Send email
W: Visit website

A World Heritage Area. Situated south of Turangi. Includes the volcanoes of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe. Numerous day walks within the park are available, ranging from 10 minutes to a full day.