Intro to Rotorua & Taupo (central north island)

The Rotorua/Taupo region is also known as Central Plateau or Volcanic Plateau, and is in the middle of the North Island. The most active volcanic areas in New Zealand are found here (and also White Island off the Bay of Plenty coast), and everywhere the landscape has been shaped by volcanism and geothermal activity.

This area is highly prized by Maori and has a thriving Maori culture.

While there is some farming, forestry predominates in this area and there is also a sizeable semi-desert in the acidic soils and rain shadow of the 3 highest volcanoes - Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu.

First time visitors to Rotorua be warned - there is a distinct sulphur smell. However after a few days this becomes less noticeable.

What to see?

Lakes. There are lots of lakes in this area. Lake Taupo is New Zealand's largest lake and popular water activities including boating and fishing (some of the rivers are much better). Lake Rotorua is the other main lake, with the largest city in the region, Rotorua, on its shores. There are however dozens of other lakes. All are in the craters of volcanoes, most of which are merely dormant not extinct.

Geysers at Whakarewarewa (Rotorua), mud pools and champagne lakes in the Rotorua area. Sadly the most famous geothermal sight, the pink and white terraces, were destroyed in a volcanic eruption in the 1870s.

Huka falls - while not particularly high the volume and flow of water is impressive. These are just north of Taupo township (and well signposted).

What to do?

Ski on an active volcano (usually winter only but some years will remain open through spring into early summer) - Turoa, Whakapapa and Tukino skifields on the slopes of Mount Ruapehu.

World famous trout fishing on the Tongariro River (south of Lake Taupo) or one of dozens of other fishing rivers near Taupo and Rotorua. If not wanting to fish but just look, visit Rainbow Springs or Fairy Springs near Rotorua.

Try out an adventure sport -bunjy jumping at Taupo and Rotorua, sky diving (amazing views over much of the North Island), luge on Mount Ngongotaha (just out of Rotorua), grass skiing near Taupo, etc.

Experience Maori culture and have a hangi in Rotorua.

A great hike is the Tongariro Crossing. Can be done as day trip. But be prepared for sudden changes in weather at any time of year. Some chairlifts on Mount Ruapehu run during summer to provide an easy option to explore the mountain. Be careful near the crater lake - check the current conditions with Department of Conservation before visiting.

Drive the "Desert Road" between Turangi and Waiouru. Great views of the 3 main volcanoes (unless the weather is bad) and the semi-desert landscape. Note this road may close a few times each winter due to snow and ice, but most of the time chains are not required (the snowline is well above the road except during winter storms).

Where to stay?

There are a lot of hotels and other accommodation in Rotorua, but as with most of NZ the major international chains are not really represented. Taupo also has lots of options even though its a smaller town.

There are also some luxury lodges notably Huka Lodge near Taupo. For something a bit different try Treetops near Rotorua.

How to get around?

Rental car is best. Tour buses stop at Taupo and Rotorua. Local shuttle buses run to the track for Tongariro Crossing, and the skifields. Fishing guides will include transport to the rivers and lakes.

The main train line has stops at Taihape, Waiouru, Raetahi, Ohakune and National Park. Note these are all south or west of the 3 main volcanoes - nowhere near Taupo or Rotorua.

Rotorua has an airport with regular flights to Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. Taupo has a smaller airport with flights to Auckland and Wellington.

Major events

Round Taupo Cycle Race - 160kms of hills and mountains each December.

Taupo Ironman.

Tips & tricks


Links


When is the best time to visit?

Best weather - summer or mid-winter
Best music and public events - xxx
Least crowded - spring and autumn