Central Plateau New Zealand – Just NZ

About The Region
Taupo
Attractions + Events
Map
Drive Times

About The Region

Some of the key place to visit in the Central Plateau region are the lakeside town of Taupo, Mt Ruapehu for hiking in summer and skiing in winter and the World Heritage listed – Tongariro National Park. The 53 km long ‘Desert Road’ between Turangi and Waiouru also provides excellent photo opportunities of the volcano.

Taupo

One of natures great escapes

Situated in the heart of New Zealands North Island is Great Lake Taupo. Discover the essence of the Taupo region and catch a wild trout, take a swim in a crystal clear lake or walk in native bush. This beautiful region offers something for everyone.

Events

  • 28th November 2015
    Contact Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge
  • 19th February 2016
    Taupo Great Lake Relay
  • 5th March 2016
    Kellogg’s Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand

Top Natural Attractions

  • Lake Taupo for swimming, sailing & fishing. Note: lake trolling is all year but seasonal restrictions apply to the rivers. The best months are Jun – Sep for rainbow trout & Feb – Mar for brown trout.
  • Wairakei geothermal area (visit their excellent Visitor Information Centre, 8 kms north of town).
  • The mighty Huka falls, NZ’s most visited attraction, 5 kms north of town.
  • The Aratiatia rapids, a controlled water release from the hydroelectric dam, approx. 10am, noon, 2pm & 4pm daily.
  • Craters of the Moon, geothermal area just north of town.
  • Be sure to stop at the marina in town to witness the sheer volume of crystal-clear water flowing from the lake.

Attractions + Events

Attractions

  • Tongariro National Park – World Heritage Area
  • Hike or ski Mt Ruapehu – which is a volcano!
  • Home of the Haka – Opataka
  • Lake Taupo
  • Whanganui National Park

Events

Visit the Central Plateau and attend one of the many local events in this region. Attending a local event is the perfect way to experience the friendly ‘Kiwi hospitality’.

  • 27th June 2015
    Ohakune Mardi Gras
  • 28th November 2015
    Contact Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge
  • 19th February 2016

    Taupo Great Lake Relay

  • 5th March 2016
    Kellogg’s Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand

Map

Map Central Plateau

Drive Times

From To Kms Hrs
Auckland Mt Ruapehu 340 kms 5 hrs
Mt Ruapehu Wellington 330 kms 4 hrs
Taupo Auckland 280 kms 3 hrs
Taupo Wellington 370 kms 5 hrs 45 mins
Taupo Rotorua 82 kms 1 hr
Taupo Hamilton 155 kms 1 hrs 20 mins
Taupo Turangi 50 kms 45 mins
Taupo Thames 210 kms 3 hrs