| New Zealand's largest lake, 606 sq.
km. in area and 357m above sea level, Lake Taupo has a tremendous history. A huge volcanic
explosion in the year 186 AD created the Lake, the explosion and its after effects were
felt as far away as China and Italy. |
 |
Taupo means the cloak of Tia, the
Maori who discovered the lake and slept by it draped in his cloak. The area is still very
much active with lots of thermal springs to dip in. The Lake is situated bang in the
middle of the North Island in the Central Plateau and the town of Taupo with a population
of 19,000 is on the northeast corner of the Lake. The Tongariro National Park with its
huge volcanic peaks lies across the town. Now the Lake is the world's trout-fishing
capital with some of the world’s largest trout swimming around. Book in advance
before going, especially in the peak summer season.
New Zealand is the modern home of ‘leaping
into an abyss for fun’ sport. On the North Island, bungee jumping is legendary
so don't miss it at Lake Taupo. Water sports, fishing, thermal pools,
Tandem Skydiving, Flightseeing & Gliding, horse trekking, off
road riding, and walking. All manners of adventure and outdoor activities are
catered for and there are lots of tours to the Tongariro Park and Waitomo from
Taupo. Cruises around the Lake are extremely popular - very scenic and very
pleasurable.
Adventure Alert! Rock 'n' Roping - a deathwish sport where you leap only
to be saved by a rope - Are you brave enough to give it a go?!
Getting There: There are various
airlines that fly from North Island to South Island via Lake Taupo. Buses also go via Lake
Taupo especially since it lies between Auckland and Wellington. Within the area, you can
hire a car or take a taxi.
Accommodation: There are loads of
places for travellers to stay in Taupo. Pick from amongst top class hotels, motor inns,
cottages and hostels. For those driving around in campervans, there are conveniently
located parking grounds with some amenities and conveniences.
For detailed country and visitor information,
see New Zealand. |
