These land-based activities are the essentials during a stay in Taupō. From cultural discoveries, a round of golf or unforgettable hiking expeditions, the choices are endless.
Explore the 18 acres of manicured grounds, laze away in your room and the library or, having come this far, do something unusual such as a heli-hike and forage for ingredients with local land custodians.Ralph Bestic Tatler
From the sub-tropical climes of the Far North to the ski fields of Ruapehu to the geothermal wonders of Rotorua and Taupō, it’s a true land of contrasts, with something for every traveller.Siobhan Downes Stuff
Taupō is the perfect place for a weekend getaway. From relaxing in hot pools, to getting your adrenaline fix from one of the many outdoor adventures.Lauren Sanderson Urban List
The very heart of Aotearoa, New Zealand, the whole Taupō landscape was created by an ancient, but still active super-volcano. There will always been unseen things, and others to be discovered. There is always more beneath the surface.David Herkt Stuff
For those who would like to work on their game, Huka Lodge can arrange private tennis tuition or for a change of pace, an outdoor guided yoga session. Please note, bookings are subject to availability.
Taupō offers a diverse range of options for guests looking to explore more or perhaps pursue a special interest. Huka Lodge works with premium local operators to offer these special adventures. Additional charges apply, please enquire for details.
Mountain bikes are available for guest use, ideal for cruising into town or for taking on the many mountain bike trails around Taupō, best explored with a private guide. such as the Timber Trail through Pureora Forest Park featuring graceful suspension bridges and intriguing timber industry relics.
Kayaks and stand-up-paddle boards are a wonderful way to explore the rivers and lakes at one’s own pace. Local operators provide a two-hour Waikato River tour as a taster, while a longer tour paddles alongside the giant Māori carvings at Lake Taupō.
Taupō’s thermal pools are renowned for increasing blood circulation while inspiring relaxation. The geothermal waters are rich in natural minerals, the perfect way to unwind after a round of golf or a day‘s adventures.
The extreme sport of bungy jumping originated in New Zealand in 1988. At Taupō, adventurers leap 150-feet from a platform over the Waikato River, upstream from Huka Falls. At 47 metres, it’s New Zealand’s highest water-touch bungy.
For thrill–seekers also keen for a view, skydiving in New Zealand is hard to beat. Lake Taupō has the largest commercial drop zone in the world and stunning views of volcanoes, forests and lake itself.
Gliding is an exhilarating sport that offers spectacular views and a sense of freedom like a bird soaring. The glider is under tow while flying over Huka Falls and Lake Taupō, before being released at around 5,000 ft.
Loved as the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, Taupō offers a variety of experiences and adventures. Huka Lodge offers guests a stylish base from which to explore the region’s spectacular natural attractions including Huka Falls and the region’s picturesque namesake lake as well as Rotarua and the Tongariro National Park.
The following represents an indicative experience at Huka Lodge over three nights. Many factors influence a guest stay, including flight arrival and departure times, pre-booked activities, touring availability, weather conditions and seasonality. Download the itinerary here.
Arrive at Huka Lodge to a warm welcome. Explore the 17-acre parkland surrounds at leisure and meander along the riverbanks to take in views of the deep turquoise green waters of the Waikato River.
This afternoon, take up a gentle afternoon pursuit, perhaps pétanque or a leisurely game of tennis before retiring to the shade of the willows that line the riverbanks, easing into the relaxed vibe and pleasing surrounds of Huka Lodge.
Enjoy drinks and canapes served in the main lodge before the evening segues to a sumptuous dinner served in the warm romantic hew of candlelight. World class wines complement premium local produce, presented in a clever and contemporary daily changing menu.
Embrace a gentle start to the morning as the mists rise and roll from the surface of the Waikato River. Enjoy a country style breakfast in the lodge while planning the day ahead. Perhaps a hike through the Tongariro National Park or a luxury cruise on Lake Taupō?
After lunch, set off to discover the Spa Thermal Park and walk downstream along the Waikato River to the powerful Huka Falls. Take a moment to feel the falls thundering along the natural channel to the river below.
This evening enjoy pre-dinner drinks in the main lodge. Choose from one of around twenty different dining venues around Huka Lodge, from the Wine Cellar lined with the finest vintages to the book-lined Library with a fireside table.
Enjoy an early breakfast before departing the lodge with a personal flyfishing guide. Gain access to the best wilderness fishing for Brown and Rainbow trout in Taupō’s network of pristine waterways.
After lunch, join a Maori cultural tour to discover the natural heritage and stories of the Taupō region. Connect with a member of the Ngati Tuwharetoa Māori tribe or take a kayak and paddle to the Ngatoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings on Lake Taupō.
After a full day’s adventures, relax with sunset drinks and compare notes with likeminded guests. This evening, enjoy the rich lodge ambiance with open fires and fine wines served to complement a degustation-style dinner before retiring to the lounge for a digestif.
Make the most of a last morning at Huka Lodge with a private yoga session on the lawn overlooking the misty Waikato River. Follow with a satisfying breakfast in the main lodge before taking a bike for an easy cycle into the Taupō township.
Conclude an unforgettable stay at Huka Lodge with a farewell to the familiar lodge team. For an exhilarating exit depart in style with a scenic helicopter ride from Huka Lodge over Taupō’s picturesque landscape.
Taupō's seasons offer reason to visit year-round. Summer brings long warm days and mild nights – perfect for outdoor adventures – while the cooler seasons offer snow sports and time for red wines and crackling open fires.
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Huka Lodge is committed to a dedicated path of initiatives to ensure the very best environmental practice. Essential to the vision are programs designed to preserve pristine waters, conserve energy via recycling and support the community of Taupō .
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Taupō is located on New Zealand’s North Island, around three hours’ drive from Auckland. The nearest airport for domestic and international air transfers is Auckland Airport, while the regional Rotorua and Taupō Airports offer optional connections for shorter drives.
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