Luxury holidays in Lake Taupo

When to go

The elevation means things get mighty cool. If you crave walking, mountain biking or throwing yourself into other outdoorsy adventures, stick to the warmer months (December to February). Prefer to ski and indulge in all its après fun? July to October is the time for you. Fan of fishing? February and March are best for brown trout, and June to September for rainbow trout, but Tongariro River has fantastic year-round offerings.

Getting there

• Planes

  Air New Zealand (www.airnewzealand.com) offers regular flights to Taupo Airport (www.taupoairport.co.nz) from international hubs Auckland and Wellington. Alternatively, Rotorua Regional Airport (www.rotorua-airport.co.nz), just an hour’s drive away, also operates flights from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

• Trains

  The Tranz Scenic Overlander (www.tranzscenic.co.nz) runs between Auckland and Wellington and stops twice in the region: at National Park and Okahune.

• Automobiles

  If you intend exploring the area, the easiest way by far is by car. Avis (www.avis.co.nz) has a counter at Taupo Airport, eight kilometres south of town. Otherwise, numerous shuttle bus services run year-round between Taupo, Turangi and the Tongariro National Park, and up to the Whakapapa ski fields (about 90 minutes away) during winter.

• Taxis

  There are three cab companies operating in Taupo, but you’re best to book one. Try Taupo Taxis (07 378 5100).