Seven Things to Love about Taupo in Autumn

1. Fewer Crowds in Autumn enable you to completely unwind; and slowly take in the natural sights and sounds of our beautiful Lake Taupo region. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Great Lake Pathway, with the spectacular view of Lake Taupo and in the distance, the three main active volcanoes of the Tongariro National Park: Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Tongariro.

2. Autumn Leaves are at their best from mid-April to early May, boasting vibrant shades of crimson, amber and gold. These autumn colours are on display along the lakefront, on nature hikes and biking trails, or you can take a picnic to the Waipahihi Botanical Gardens.

3. Crisp morning air frequently causes mist to be formed over the lake in the early mornings, making Autumn in Taupo a fantastic time for Extraordinary Photography. The typical stillness of the lake water is the perfect time to take a scenic boat cruise and photograph the Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings.

4. Autumn is ideal for Bird Watching in Taupo, with many birds actively feeding to prepare for the winter months. This, along with the fewer crowds and undisturbed environments, makes them easier to spot. Tūī & Kererū (New Zealand Wood Pigeon) can be seen in abundance in forested areas, and the endangered Whio (Blue Duck) can be seen along the Tongariro river, particularly near the Tongariro National Trout Centre.

5. Autumn is premier Fishing Season in the Taupo region. Fly fishing at the river mouth improves with the cooler temperatures, as the mature rainbow trout gather before spawning.

6. Mild, Sunny days are well suited for all outdoor activities; and Taupo has something for everyone. There are natural wonders to behold like the awesome Huka Falls, Craters of the Moon and the Orakei Korako Geothermal Park. Take a relaxing cruise along the Waikato river to the Huka Falls River Cruise, or enjoy some of New Zealand’s most remarkable landscapes from the air in Taupo’s Float plane. For the more adventurous, take a Jet Boat ride on the Waikato river, or take a leap off New Zealand’s only cliff-top bungy; at Taupo Bungy Centre.

7. The Cooler, star-filled nights are the perfect ending to the day. Tantalise your taste buds at one of Taupo’s Lakefront restaurants, or treat yourself to a soothing soak in the hot pools at Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort.