Lake Taupo

Situated in the volcanic heart of the North Island is Lake Taupo, with a surface area of 616 square kilometres (238 sq miles), it is New Zealand’s largest fresh water lake. Surrounded by stunning volcanoes, bush clad mountains, fascinating geothermal areas and the famous Huka Falls. The water is stunningly blue, and is drained by the Waikato River (New Zealand's longest river), while its main tributaries are the Waitahanui River, the Tongariro River, and the Tauranga Taupo River. Visitors come for the scenery and action-packed adventure, which are accompanied by a genuinely friendly local culture; the towns are bustling with cafes and exclusive shopping. Some of the best trout fishing in the world has international anglers flocking to the area, because this region is one of the last true wild trout fisheries in the world. Local guides will soon get you hooked, and there are plenty of restaurants happy to cook your catch. With the air fresh and unpolluted, the mighty mountain peaks draw skiers and adventurers alike to experience the pristine environment. The geothermal attractions include geysers, boiling mud pools, steaming craters, and some of the largest silica terraces in the world. Other unique experiences include a game of golf at Wairakei and kayaking to the Maori carvings at Mine Bay.