By Kristy Gilligan 

Most anyone who knows New Zealand knows Lake Taupo. If you look at a map it’s the giant puddle right in the middle of the north island.

To be precise, that giant puddle is about 25 nautical miles long, 18 nautical miles wide and deeper than 100 metres on average. The Taupo township has formed next to the lake based upon tourism, farming, forestry and energy industries. It’s the tourism that makes Taupo worth a visit, as there is just so much to do throughout any season of the year. 

Winter might not be fun for flying in New Zealand but it sure is fun for snow sports. Just 90 minutes from Taupo by car  are three ski areas, two of which are the largest in the country - Whakapapa and Turoa. If you arrive in the warmer months then the same area is home to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. The crossing has been described as 'the best one day hike' in New Zealand. Exquisite bush, streams and sub-alpine hiking tracks can all be found here. It’s also worth a trip up the Whakapapa Ski lift in summer, up the side of a rocky volcano for a cup of hot chocolate before heading back down. The café at the top is the highest in the southern hemisphere.

Taupo is often touted as the trout fishing capital of the world. The Tongariro River is Lake Taupo's main spawning river and world famous for the size and quantity of trout in it. Out in the Lake there are zillions of trout and they're all fat and feisty. Fly-fishing guides will have you hooked up to a fish on your first day. Funnily enough, you can’t buy trout to eat in Taupo, but take your catch into many of the local restaurants and they will cook it for you!

If you like your seafood on the smaller side then visit the Huka Prawn Farm. Here the kiddies can meet Shawn the Prawn, visit the prawn hatchery to hand feed baby prawns and enjoy lunch in the restaurant.

Jet boating is on everyone’s list for New Zealand adventures, and there are plenty of rides in the river, some that take you right to the bottom of Huka Falls. Alternatively you can check out a slightly smellier natural wonder – the volcanic and geothermal sights around Taupo. Don't miss the historic village of Tokaanu, just 10 minute drive down the road. Tokaanu is famous for its hot mineral pools and geothermal area. There is no shortage of great adventure activities to add to your itinerary like white-water rafting, kayaking, bushwalking and 4x4 bike tours.

Huka Falls is a scenic must do in Taupo, where around 60,000 gallons of water from the Waikato River pass through a narrow chasm every second. It is both beautiful and dramatic and will certainly strike fear into the heart of anyone who’s ever taken to the rapids for sport.

Taupo Airport is situated just 8 kilometres from the town's centre, with daily flights to and from Taupo to Auckland and Wellington. On average, the airport has approximately 45,000 aircraft movements per year. These include regular transport flights, the aero club, helicopter businesses, sky diving and charter operators. Being a passenger facility there are good amenities and plenty of people around on the weekend to make you feel welcome. The only bummer is the landing fees and a reminder to be alert for parachutists – they are everywhere!

If you want to mix a little bit of flying with your flying, the Taupo Gliding Club is a relaxing place to visit. Located on Centennial Drive near the horse racing track, just east of town, the club operates off a grass strip well away from Taupo Airport and close enough to the lake and mountains to enjoy some spectacular views.

Accommodation is wide ranging in Taupo due to the broad range of visitors. It gets busy at times, so always book ahead, but you’ll find something to suit your budget from backpacker hostels to luxurious lodges. The region provides a variety of international standard hotels, self contained motels, holiday parks, beaches, apartments, lodges, timeshares, and guest and hosted accommodation.

A Backpackers is an ideal option for the student explorer, backpacker or general traveller. The hostels are a great way to find out local information about the town facilities, the tours available and the great tourist spots you must see while you are visiting Taupo. Some of the Backpacker Hostels may have a bar. Yipee!

Boutique accommodation is also easy to find, in or out of town, with elite and fashionable facilities, distinguishing their accommodation from the larger hotel chains. The accommodation is usually luxurious, with a personal level of service and style to make your visit a little more indulgent.

It goes without saying that before you fly anywhere in New Zealand, check the weather and maybe ring the aeroclub for an ‘actual’ as the weather changes fast. Otherwise, throw your skis, fishing rod, hiking boots and kayak in the plane and have fun!