Taupō makes the Top 10 Most Welcoming Cities in the World list by Booking.com
Holidaymakers visiting New Zealand for the first time may have popular destinations such as Queenstown, Auckland and Wellington pinned to the top of travel itineraries—and who can blame them? However, if, like us, you like to itch the off-the-beaten-track scratch and feel like a local in the know, it’s time to get acquainted with Taupō.
The North Island lakeside city, famed for its watersports activities, Māori cultural experiences, picturesque scenery, and geothermal activity, was recently named one of the Top 10 Most Welcoming Cities in the World by Booking.com. Taupō joins global destinations such as Ko Lanta in Thailand, Cazorla in Spain, and Urubici in Brazil, rounding off a list sure to tempt any traveller. Melissa Ellison, Area Manager, New Zealand for Booking.com, commented, ‘We’re thrilled to see Taupō be recognised on the global stage this year, and are looking forward to continuing to support our local partners as they welcome visitors to the region’s world-class hospitality and scenic landscapes.’
The beauty of Taupō lies in its versatility. Whether you’re stopping off for a day on a North Island road trip or setting up camp for the foreseeable, there’s plenty to see and do, whatever your travel timeframe. Here’s how to spend a perfect day in Taupō, according to Remix.
Via lovetaupo.com
Sunrise walk to the summit of Mount Tauhara
They say the early bird catches the worm, but in this case, it catches a sunrise to remember. Mount Tauhara is one of the most popular walking trails (just a 10-minute drive) outside the centre of Taupō, offering panoramic views over Lake Taupō and the central North Island. Many sunrise seekers walk the 2.5km trail to the summit to catch the first light as it bathes the scenery below before continuing the 2-3-hour return track.
Via larte.co.nz
The most important meal of the day
If you take your coffee seriously, head to local roastery, Sacred Grounds, for a perfect pour. Now, breakfast. Taupō has no shortage of top-notch breakfast spots, but our favourites include Storehouse, Baked With Love, and The Cozy Corner. A little further afield, in neighbouring Acacia Bay, is L’Arté Cafe & Gallery. Inspired by the iconic mosaics of Gaudí, the cafe is home to colourful and quirky mosaic features and handmade ceramic art creations that guests can explore pre or post-breakfast—which may, we add, be worth a visit in itself.
Via lovetaupo.com
Explore at your own pace
Taupō’s backyard is brimming with outdoor activities for all adrenaline levels. Bungee jumping and jet boat river tours are perfect for shaking away the cobwebs, while fishing charters and strolls around Huka Falls offer a slower pace, complementing the fantastic outdoor activities on offer in Taupō. As briefly touched on earlier, Taupō is also one of New Zealand’s most well-known geothermal hotspots, which, in Remix terms, translates to relaxing in a hot pool— of which there are plenty. Our pick? Otumuheke Stream. Find a spot in the natural, thermally-heated Otumuheke Stream’s mineral-laden waters and relax and recharge for the afternoon. It’s also the perfect place for a picnic! Oh, and did we mention it’s free? 
Dinner and drinks
A day of exploring is hungry work, so refuel at one of Taupō’s fantastic restaurants. All cuisines and budgets are well and truly catered for—whether it’s a special-occasion supper or a cheap and cheerful affair. A unique eating experience is served courtesy of the Crafty Trout Brewing Co—a charming German-inspired restaurant specialising in loaded beef schnitzels and house craft beers. With bellies suitably full, take a relaxed stroll along the lakefront before popping into Embra for a nightcap before bed.
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