In our ‘Complete Guide’ series, we’re going to be visiting some of New Zealand’s most popular tourist destinations and getting the inside track from our GO Explore followers on the best places to stay, eat, drink, sunbathe and more. Instead of just finding out what the guidebooks tell you, find out what the locals and the travellers think when it comes to the best place to get an ice cream, the best fish and chips and the best cocktail you’ve ever had!

The next in our series of Complete Guides takes us to the central North Island and the hugely popular town of Taupo as well as the outdoor adventure destination, Tongariro. Taupo is one of New Zealand’s most popular stop-off points on a tour of the North Island. Located around 3.5 hours south of Auckland, the town is home to New Zealand’s biggest lake making it a great spot for watersport activities. It’s also one of the coolest places in the country to skydive, offering amazing views of the lakes and the nearby mountains and volcanoes. Tongariro is a walkers’ paradise. Home to arguably New Zealand’s best one day walk as well as numerous volcanoes including the world-famous Mt Doom, it’s a place just waiting to be explored…so let’s GO!

Best accommodation in Taupo and Tongariro

For most people heading to the central North Island, Taupo offers the best range of accommodation options. Those heading specifically to take on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or perhaps heading down for some winter skiing may choose to stay up in the Tongariro National Park, however Tongariro is easily reachable from Taupo too. Here are some top tips from our GO Explorers when it comes to places to stay in Taupo and Tongariro:

Gables Lakefront Motel - Taupo

As you can imagine, Taupo is not short on lakefront accommodation so it’s tricky to pick one place over another. Our GO Explorers James and Caroline stayed at the Gables Lakefront Motel and loved it. Clean and contemporary, it’s a great location in the heart of the town with stunning views out over the lake. There are lots of accommodation options to suit all budgets and a warm welcome on arrival. Following a recent refurbishment, the motel is now one of Taupo’s top performers on Trip Advisor.

Le Chalet Suisse Motel - Taupo

Another motel with a fantastic location, Le Chalet Suisse is situated just a short 4 minute walk from the restaurants and bars in the town. The motel has some fantastic facilities including a swimming pool, heated outdoor spa and free unlimited WiFi making it a very attractive place to spend a few days. All the apartments are self-contained with cooking facilities so you can prepare food for a day spent out exploring the local area.

Adventure Lodge and Motel - Tongariro

If you are planning on taking on the challenge of the Tongariro Crossing, we recommend staying down in the Tongariro National Park. Whilst you can catch a transfer from Taupo, an early start and a long day awaits so it makes sense to stay in the park. The Adventure Lodge and Motel is a top tip from GO Explorer Kate who stayed here on a trip to take on the challenging day walk. With a shuttle service to the start and pick up when you finish as well as a great range of accommodation options including lodge and motel apartments, this is a good base for a couple of nights.

Wairakei Resort - Taupo

If you are looking for something a bit more up-market, Wairakei Resort on the outskirts of Taupo is a wonderful place to stay. The resort is situated on geothermal grounds and is an international 4 Star resort. Relax in one of two outdoor, geothermally heated pools or soak up the sun around the resort’s lagoon pool where you can enjoy a cocktail from the bar. If you are a golfer, the world-class Wairakei Golf Resort is located just across the road from the resort and the hotel runs regular deals for golfing parties.

Bella Vista Motel - Taupo

When you rent your car with GO Rentals, you will get access to our exclusive GO Play card that gives you discounts at over 170 attractions, activities and accommodation around New Zealand. The Bella Vista chain is part of our programme and you can save 10% at the Bella Vista Taupo Motel. Located on the fringe of Lake Taupo, the motel is ideally located for exploring the town and lake. The motel offers free weekday newspapers and has a guest laundry and BBQ area. With ample parking and free WiFi, it’s a great place to base yourself for exploring the region.

Chateaux Tongariro Hotel - Tongariro

If you are looking for a place with a bit of wow factor, Chateaux Tongariro Hotel in the Tongariro National Park ticks all the boxes. Located in the heart of Whakapapa Village, the Hotel was constructed in the early 1920’s and opened in 1923. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, a stay at Chateaux Tongariro Hotel is like a step back in time. It’s a great place to stay if you are heading down for a weekend of skiing or you are exploring the Dual Heritage National Park.

Best places to eat out in Taupo and Tongariro

Taupo is not short on great places to eat out. Whether you’re on a budget or you want a slap-up meal, the town caters for all budgets. If you are staying up in Tongariro or Whakapapa, there are some good options for a hearty feed after a day on the slopes or tramping through the National Park. Here are some of our favourites:

Best sights in Taupo and Tongariro

As you would imagine, there are some pretty stunning sights to be seen in both Taupo and the Tongariro National Park. From the towering volcanoes to the country’s largest lake, there is plenty to see and do in this beautiful part of New Zealand. Here are some of the highlights:

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