GO NZ: What to see and do in Taupō with the family
9 Feb, 2021 03:10 AM
6 minutes to read
Observer
Alexia Santamaria
The beach tends to be the summer destination of choice for many New Zealanders but a lake-based holiday has many of the same benefits, with a lot less sand in your car. Taupō has endless options for all generations of your family and is the perfect place to spend anything from a long weekend to a full week. Here are my picks of what to do in this lakeside location if you have kids in tow - all personally test-driven by my own offspring.
Taupō s posh Huka Lodge set to be sold to American private equity firm
29 Jan, 2021 04:23 AM
4 minutes to read
An American private equity fund has been allowed to buy Huka Lodge. Photo / Supplied
What do Queen Elizabeth II, the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, Tilda Swinton, Donald Sutherland, Joan Collins, Michael Douglas, Sir Peter Jackson, Sam Neill and Michael J Fox all have in common? Answer: they ve all stayed at Huka Lodge, which is now being sold.
The famous Taupō lodge has been voted one of the most romantic tourism venues and has hosted some of the world s richest and most famous people. But now an American private equity business has won government consent to buy the high-profile tourist resort and it has big expansion plans.
Ask the experts: Regional tourism s rising stars
12 minutes to read
There s no better time to plan a Kiwi holiday than when you re returning to work from your most recent one. But where to go? We ve asked some rising stars of the New Zealand tourism industry for their regional recommendations.
TAUPŌJo Saville, Huka Honey Hive
What is your favourite thing to see, do, or visit in the Taupō region?
Huka Falls is still one of my favourite things to visit. The raw power of the thundering falls coupled with the serene calmness of gentle mist floating in the air is truly magical. I love watching it from the different vantage points, like from the amazing walks along the edges of the Waikato or by jetboat or cruise where you can soak it in from below.
Hidden gems: The central North Island walking tracks to try this summer
10 Jan, 2021 01:00 AM
5 minutes to read
The Coromandel Coastal Walkway. Photo / Supplied
When lacing up the walking shoes, everyone knows you can head to Mauao or nip out to Rotorua s Blue Lake for a stunning scenic stroll. Little do many people know, the central North Island has an abundance of hidden gems when it comes to walking tracks, both long and short. Here are 10 you should try this summer:
1. Rainbow Mountain
Lush greenery, steamy geothermal sights and pink clay tracks. Rainbow Mountain truly is a volcanic wonderland. About 20 minutes south of Rotorua, this steep but short track between two crater lakes provides stunning mountain views, including Mt Tarawera, the Paeroa Range, the Urewera Ranges, Mt Tauhara and the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park. The 5km return trip takes the average walker a couple of hours. However, do not take your furry friend on this one because dogs are not allow
Brook Sabin
The summer holidays are upon us, but that doesn t mean our end of year breaks need to be expensive.
So the horrendous year that was has finally come to an end, but thanks to last night’s overindulgences, you’re feeling pretty horrendous yourself. We’re here to help. With its bracing waters, healing hot pools, restorative spas, superlative pies and quality brunch spots, New Zealand is basically one big detox joint. Here are a few ideas for helping you feel human again.
Brook Sabin
Mineral-rich hot pools, carbs and the ‘hair of the dog’: Lake Taupo Holiday Resort’s swim-up hot pool bar and cafe delivers a winning hangover-busting combo.