Page 48 - Flipbook

weekenders LAKE TAUPO, NZ
Taupo...
Nature’s Ultimate Playground.
ARTICLE COURTESY OF TOURISM NEW ZEALAND
Taupo, where lush greenery meets crystal clear water.
THIS SORT AFTER HOLIDAY DESTINATION BOASTS THE LARGEST FRESHWATER LAKE IN AUSTRALASIA AND ITS MOUNTAINS ARE MOST FAMOUS INTERNATIONALLY FOR BEING FEATURED AS THE OMINOUS MT DOOM IN THE LORD OF THE RINGS TRILOGY.
Lake Taupo is New Zealand’s largest lake, source of spectacular Huka Falls, and
centre of an active volcanic region where geothermal energy bursts through the
earth’s thin crust. The Lake Taupo region is a sporting paradise, and destination
for holiday adventures and relaxation.
PICTURE PERFECT
You will need to travel a long way to find a more pristine environment than thet occupied by Taupo, where glorius green hills meet crystal clear water.
Lake Taupo - the North Island’s heart according to Māori legend
- is the largest fresh water lake in Australasia. The lake was created in an ancient volcanic eruption, and the region is full of natural thermal springs and bubbling mud pools. Huka Falls, New Zealand’s most visited natural attraction, are on the Waikato River just north
of Lake Taupo. South of the lake, Tongariro National Park has dual World Heritage status recognising important Māori cultural and spiritual associations as well as its outstanding volcanic features.
Lake Taupo region is culturally significant for Māori, and has
many examples of historic and contemporary Māori culture.
Māori rock carvings, on a cliff at
the southern end of Mine Bay, are
an important contemporary cultural attraction. Wairakei Terraces gives another insight into Māori history and culture. The replica Māori village at the world-first man-made silica terraces has Māori carving treasures, culture performances and traditional hangi (earth oven) food. Guided tours into native forest highlight the spiritual relationship between Māori and the land, local cultural history, and New Zealand’s unique flora
and fauna.
Lake Taupo region is a vast playground for fishing, hiking and adventure. Tongariro River - on Lake Taupo’s southern tip - is considered one of the world’s best fishing spots. Private guides also take anglers
to remote rivers and streams only accessible to those-in-the-know. The Tongariro is also the perfect river
for first-time rafters and recreational kayakers. Tour operators offer day or overnight camping adventures along the river.
46 SPRING/SUMMER 2013