Page 13 - Flipbook

TAUPO
TAKE THE KIDS
New Zealand
more than meets the eye fun for all ages and interests
Below: Nature’s mud baths, rotorua. Photo: Chris Sisarich, courtesy of Tourism New Zealand
Lake Taupo in New Zealand is famous among thrill seekers who travel there to scale mountains, ski and white water raft. Not surprisingly, the Great Lake Taupo is also the events capital of New Zealand hosting year round rock concerts, sporting events, arts and culture displays. This area of stunning natural beauty has more to offer visitors than the lake itself. There’s an alternative side to Taupo for those who’d rather indulge in relaxed fun.
SOAk iT UP
The hot thermal springs in Taupo were highly valued by the Maori for their healing powers and therapeutic benefits. At the turn of the 20th century, travellers from all over the world came by train, horse or stagecoach to soak in the springs.
Today, several spas offer the chance to
dip your toes in the famed healing waters. Families should try DeBretts Thermal Spas, where children can play while the adults soak in the steaming hot pools. A more relaxing option for those without little one’s is the Wairakei Terraces Spa offering a more private setting.
MOOn WAlk
Give your muscles a work out before you take a dip on the Tokaanu Thermal Walk, a free bushwalk that winds past steaming pools and spluttering mud baths. Alternatively, you could take the Craters of the Moon Walk, which has a slightly longer loop trail suitable for all ages and fitness levels. If you’re keen head to the upper lookout (this section is steep and stepped in places but the view is well worth the effort and highly recommended).
FOOd AdvenTUreS
Kids and adults will enjoy the buzz at Huka Honey Hive next to New Zealand’s most visited natural attraction, Huka Falls. At the Honey Hive you’ll see honey being made into a number of yummy products, not all edible – some are for slathering on your body and others
for drinking.
Another edible option is a visit to the Huka Prawn Park. Taupo might be better known for its trout fishing but New Zealand’s only prawn park offers hours of entertainment. You can handfeed baby prawns as well as try to hook one on a line. Vegetarians might prefer to head straight for the adventure playground and geothermal footbaths. EV
RCI affiliated resorts in Lake Taupo include:
Lake Edge Resort (1708)
North Island, New Zealand
MEMbER REVIEW: “Delighted with the resort and overall experience - superb location, excellent amenities within apartment and could easily reside there for some time!”
Taupo Ika Nui (0900)
North Island, New Zealand
MEMbER REVIEW: “Our family thoroughly enjoyed their stay, especially as they had a unit looking straight out to Lake Taupo. Being within walking distance to the shopping area was a bonus.”
The Lakeside Villas (3004)
North Island, New Zealand
MEMbER REVIEW: “We found Lakeside Villas an absolute dream, the facilities were just great and we felt like we were staying in a home away from home. The 2 bdrm villa compares well to the standard of our home timeshare Grandview, Las Vegas.“
The Phoenix Resort (3854)
North Island, New Zealand
MEMbER REVIEW: “Small personalised resort with wonderful staff. A great base for travelling around the area as there is lots to do.”
ENDLESS VaCaTION 13
Tongariro Crossing