Taupo
Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake (619sq km), and the township of Taupo in the scenic heart of the North lsland. Hot springs appear in several places around the lake, which is actually a volcanic crater.

Located in the middle of New Zealand's North Island. The district enjoys the geographical inclusion of the Tongariro National Park, Lake Taupo and more than half the length of the Waikato River. Lake Taupo and the Waikato River have good quality water because they are both in close proximity to their alpine source. The district is fortunate to have New Zealand’s largest lake at its heart which provides a myriad of water activities.

The mighty Waikato River, is one of the main outlets from Lake Taupo is one of New Zealand's longest river, which gushes through a narrow chasm at the Huka Falls.

Tourism Industry
Water is the primary focus with trout fishing, boating, water skiing, and swimming in Lake Taupo and several smaller lakes. The many rivers in the region also provide fishing, white water rafting, kayaking jet boating and other activities.

A secondary focus is on the mountains of Tongariro National Park and the Kaimanawa and Pureora Forest Parks with activities such as hiking, skiing and hunting. Many other reserves provide a range of opportunities to walk, picnic, and view thermal attractions or engage in more adventurous activities.

Taupo township is the main centre for accommodation, activities and attractions. Turangi and Tokaanu provide a focus for activities at the southern end of the Lake. Several smaller communities around the lake are locations for many holiday homes for the domestic market.

Main Attractions / Activities
Lake Taupo, the Tongariro River and other inflowing streams have for a long-time had an international reputation for their rainbow trout fishery.

Many people, however, just enjoy cruising, participating in the many water activities, or simply relaxing in one of the North Island's beauty spots. For the more energetic there are horse treks, bungy jumping, rafting, golfing and walking.

The Wairakei International Golf Course is one of the country's premier courses and one of seven in the area.

Turangi at the southern end of the lake, is also another renowned trout fishing spot and the base for whitewater rafting on the Tongariro River which flows into the lake.

Tongariro National Park
Tongariro National Park is New Zealand’s first National Park.
It is a place of extremes and surprises, a place to explore and remember. From herb fields to forests, from tranquil lakes to desert-like plateau and active volcanoes - Tongariro has them all.

The park is centered around two large New Zealand volcanoes, Mount Ruapehu and Mount Tongariro. In 1988 the park was declared a World Heritage Site for its spectacular natural landscape values, and five years later was again given World Heritage Site status for its Maori cultural significance.
Mt Ruapehu is also one of the most popular ski mountains
in New Zealand.

Adventure Tourism in the Lake Taupo region is Skiing, Trout fishing, Rock Climbing, white water rafting, New Zealand hiking and tramping, boating. Lake Taupo is a lakeside resort town with all amenities and the Tongariro River is a world famous fly fishing area.

Economy & Business
Taupo township is the primary commercial and industrial hub. Man-made forests spread over the district, particularly in the east, as growing conditions here are ideal.

Pastoral farmlands from east to west are dominated by sheep and beef cattle while the northern reaches are preferred for dairy farming.

There is an abundance of energy in the region that began with hydroelectric developments in mid-century. The new growth is in developing our geothermal resources and Tourism.