Lake Taupo New Zealand,: Official Website of Destination Lake Taupo.

Arts Culture Heritage

New Zealand's Origins

Lake Taupo has a proud history and heritage built around the Tangata Whenua (people of the land) and the early European settlement of missionaries and the armed constabulary. This is a history of the earliest traditions and legends with many stories dating from pre-european history.

Embrace and enjoy the local maori who have inherited from their ancestors the stories and whakapapa of the Ngatoroirangi and Ngati Tuwharetoa. Come and explore contemporary maori hosting adventure activities, the iconic kapa haka (dance) and hangi (traditional maori feast served from an earth oven) product.

Experience the culture of Taupo today, its galleries, museum, cafes, restaurants, tourism, shops, and thriving business centre.

Taupo Museum

In the heart of Taupo

Taupo Museum is home to a blend of heritage and culture; from yesterday’s historic treasures to today’s contemporary art. Situated in the heart of Taupo, our museum and art gallery offers visitors an opportunity to celebrate both art and history in one ideal location

Pure NZ Ora Garden

2004 Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal

The remarkable garden containing geothermal silica terraces with steaming hot water pools reminiscent of natural features found in the central North Island has been re-created in Taupo. A fantastic new attractions for Taupo.

History, Heritage, Culture

Tangata Whenua History

Lake Taupo has a proud history and heritage built around Tangata Whenua (people of the land). The earliest traditions and legends, the stories of pre European history, contemporary Maori of today alongside a multi cultural community make up the diverse representaion of this region.

Taupo Museum

Displays depict history and growth of the Lake Taupo region and includes the historic Reid carving collection. Art displays change regularly. Open 1030 to 1630.

P: +64 7 376 0414
F: +64 7 378 9150
E: info@taupomuseum.co.nz
W: www.taupomuseum.co.nz

Replete Café

Replete has been showing Des Robertshaw’s work since the cafe opened in 1993. In this time Des has become well known throughout New Zealand. He is also represented in Sydney and New York.

P: +64 7 377 3011
F: +64 7 378 7896
E: art@replete.co.nz
W: www.replete.co.nz

Kaimanawa Forest Park

This forest park is situated east of Taupo and Turangi.

P: +64 7 386 8607

New Zealand Woodcraft

Chris and Joan Guy turn some of the most stunning native New Zealand woods. Chris, a true artisan, has been woodturning for the past 20 years, and Joan more recently.

P: +64 7 374 8555
F: +64 7 374 8515
E: woody@nzwoodcraft.co.nz
W: nzwoodcraft.co.nz

Wildwood Gallery

Robbie’s original woodturning uses a variety of native and exotic woods. He creates uniquely designed art pieces with a beautiful finish. Sue’s vibrant watercolour paintings are inspired by the natural beauty of N Z scenery, flora, fauna and still lif

P: +64 7 377 0469
F: +64 7 377 0469
E: robbie-sue@wildwoodgallery.co.nz
W: www.wildwoodgallery.co.nz

Riverside Market

Weekly market, every Saturday morning 10am till 1pm, fresh produce, arts and crafts, clothing, beauty products and so much more! Car boot sale 1st Saturday of every month.

P: +64 21 930 020

Whirinaki Forest Park

This forest park is situated north east of Taupo.

P: +64 7 366 1080
F: +64 7 366 1082

Kura

Kura is a small gallery specialising in unique pieces of quality contemporary New Zealand ethnic art and craft. They focus on artists who use natural materials ranging from flax fibre to fabricated steel and whose work reflects our multifaceted culture.

P: +64 7 377 4068
F: +64 7 377 4069
E: kura.taupo@kura.co.nz
W: www.kura.co.nz

Kaweka Forest Park

This forest park is situated east of Taupo and Turangi.

P: +64 7 386 8607

Tongariro National Park

A World Heritage Area. Situated south of Turangi. Includes the volcanoes of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe. Numerous day walks within the park are available, ranging from 10 minutes to a full day.

P: +64 7 892 3729
F: +64 7 892 3814
E: whakapapavc@doc.govt.nz
W: www.doc.govt.nz