Lake Taupo Tours & Vacations

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises). 

However, we continue to strongly recommend  that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Learn more about Intrepid's COVID-19 policy

The closest airport to Lake Taupo is Taupo Airport which is an 8 kilometre drive from the lake. Direct flights take 50 minutes from Auckland and 1 hour from Wellington. Driving to Taupo from Auckland takes 3.5 hours or it's a 4.5 hour drive from Wellington. There are also regular InterCity bus services which take slightly longer as they pick up and drop off passengers along the way. 

The best way to experience Lake Taupo is to get out on its crystal clear waters. There are also walking trails along the shore of the lake. 

The weather at Lake Taupo can be warm in summer so don't be surprised if you find yourself kayaking around the lake in shorts and a t-shirt. If you're to keen to try water sports like rafting or kayaking, a summer visit is a good choice as the weather is warmer if you do happen to fall into Lake Taupo or one of the nearby rivers. It can get cold in winter with temperatures dropping to around two degrees Celcius. Autumn brings the colours of leaves changing from green to red and gold and spring is perfect for strolling and sailing around the lake. 

Clothes you can layer work best if you're travelling to Lake Taupo as it can be very warm in the middle of the day. Add a jumper or jacket, wet weather gear, sunscreen, a hat and a beanie. Remember to pack a fleece if you're heading out on the water as it can get chilly on the boat, even in summer. Comfortable shoes are also a must for exploring this scenic area.  

Lake Taupo is a laid back destination so people tend to dress casually. Smart casual is considered 'dressy' at most restaurants in the main town of Taupo.  

The is good WiFi coverage at Lake Taupo but the signal can be weak when you're exploring some parts of the lake. 

The is good mobile phone coverage at Lake Taupo but the signal can be weak when you're exploring some parts of the lake. 

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. Some Lake Taupo tours such as kayak trips and parasailing adventures are easier than others for travellers with limited mobility. However, we’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Learn more about Accessible Travel with Intrepid