North Island · Explorer’s field notes
How to Taupō
A vast volcanic lake the size of Singapore, thundering Huka Falls and the gateway to the Tongariro Crossing.
Taupō videos from the Hôtel du Van founders are coming soon to the Stay Scene channel.
AVOID · Taupō
What to avoid in Taupō
- SH1 along the Desert Road in winter without checking snow closures.
- The Huka Falls car park at midday in summer — go early or late.
- Parking on the lakefront during the Ironman and cycle-challenge weekends.
The top ten
Where to go, eat & take coffee
Places to explore, eat and stock up along the way.
- 1See & do
Huka Falls
220,000 litres per second of turquoise water forced through a rock chasm.
Huka Falls Road, Wairakei 3377 
2See & doMāori Rock Carvings
A 14-metre carving of Ngātoroirangi, reached only by water.
Mine Bay, Lake Taupō (by boat from Taupō Marina)
3See & doTongariro Alpine Crossing
New Zealand's great day walk across volcanic craters and emerald lakes.
Mangatepopo Road, Tongariro National Park 3989
4See & doCraters of the Moon
A steaming geothermal boardwalk, just north of town.
171 Karapiti Road, Wairakei 3384
5See & doSpa Thermal Park hot stream
Free natural hot pools where a warm stream meets the river.
County Avenue, Taupō 3330
6See & doWairakei Terraces
Silica terraces and thermal pools for an evening soak.
State Highway 1, Wairakei 3384
7Eat
8Eat
9Coffee
10Coffee
Do not make these mistakes!
1. Starting the Crossing unprepared
Weather on Tongariro changes fast. Check the forecast, book a shuttle and carry layers and water.
2. Leaving the van at the Crossing car park
Mangatepopo has a four-hour parking limit. Use a shuttle from Taupō or National Park.
3. Jumping into Huka Falls river
The current is lethal. Admire from the footbridge only.
Continue the voyage
Photos are AI-generated illustrations. Opening hours and rules change — check before you go.