2026 Hatepe Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

The bay of plenty in New Zealand is famous around the world for its stunning natural beauty, I spent a few days driving around this area and I was totally blown away. We drove from Turanagi to the coast and we followed the lakes along the way. There are many lakes and they all vary in size but they are all equally stunning. The weather was amazing so we made sure we pulled up at the beach of every lake and went for a swim, I can’t even put into words how refreshing it is. The water is completely clear and clean, and the perfect temperature - the lakes stay shallow for a while and there is no current so they are safe to swim. Many of the lakes have designated beaches with car parking, toilets, recycling facilities and places to clean your feet - something I love about New Zealand. If you’re in this area I really advise planning some time taking in these lakes, especially if you love swimming! The only downside is there is very little shade so it’s hard if you burn easily or it’s really hot, avoid the hottest parts of the day. And of course know your limits, if you’re not a strong swimmer please stay at the beach or in the shallow water! #myitinerary #beach #explore #lakes #nature #swimming #newzealand #Bayofplenty #northisland #roadtrip #travel

This huge lake formed by volcanic activity is not only the largest lake in New Zealand, but also one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. First, we came to the lake. Standing here, you can feel the tranquility and magnificence of Lake Taupo. The lake is crystal clear and surrounded by lush hills and forests. If you are a photography enthusiast, this is definitely the perfect place to capture the natural beauty. In the early morning, the mist on the lake is like a fairyland; in the evening, the setting sun reflects on the lake, adding a touch of romance. Lake Taupo is not just a tourist destination, it also has a wealth of outdoor activities. If you like excitement, try kayaking, sailing or jet skiing on the lake. For those who like tranquility, you can choose fishing or canoeing to enjoy close contact with nature. There are also many hiking trails around the lake that are suitable for the whole family. In addition to the lake itself, there are many places to visit around Lake Taupo. For example, the adjacent Whakaretapu Falls is a spectacular natural landscape. The water pours down from the heights, creating a breathtaking sight. In addition, don’t miss visiting the hot springs by the lake, especially in winter. Soaking in the steaming hot springs and looking at the snow-white scenery is unique. In Taupo town, you can also find a variety of restaurants and cafes. Restaurants here offer fresh local ingredients, especially lake fish and lamb, and are a great place to sample New Zealand cuisine. At the same time, there are also many specialty shops and art galleries in the town, where you can buy handicrafts and souvenirs. Of course, experiencing Maori culture is an integral part of coming to New Zealand. There are several Maori villages near Lake Taupo, and you can take cultural tours to learn about Maori history, art and traditions. Overall, Lake Taupo is not only a paradise for nature lovers, but also the best place to find peace and relaxation. Whether traveling alone or with family and friends, there is something for everyone. Here, you can temporarily forget the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature.

On the North Island of New Zealand, there is a very famous landscape: Taupo. This inland lake, formed more than 26,000 years ago after a volcanic eruption, is now the backyard of New Zealanders. It is only a 3.5-hour drive from Auckland and a 4.5-hour drive from Wellington. It is a world-renowned fishing resort, with a famous rainbow trout fishing area and the location of the famous Huka Falls. Behind it is the Tangariro snow mountain. You can visit the spectacular Huka Falls here, take a canoe to the Maori rock cave in the mining bay, hike the Tongariro Alpine Trail, which is the scene of the "Doomsday Volcano" in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, or just relax and enjoy the hot springs... The endless lakes, lush primeval forests, and frequent geothermal activities have created countless beautiful scenery of Lake Taupo. The majestic Huka Falls converts the huge energy of the volcano into surging white water, pouring down from Lake Taupo and merging into the Waikato River. For a more leisurely experience, you can take a relaxing stroll along the peaceful and tranquil shores of Lake Taupo, where there are several small holiday areas and secluded primeval forests to choose from. If you are interested in culture and art, you must not miss the Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings, which can only be seen by boat or kayak. The rock carvings are distributed on the steep cliffs around Lake Taupo, leaving a deep impression on people. The Moon Crater is also a fascinating natural landscape. This geothermal volcanic valley hisses and spits steam, and a boardwalk takes you deep into the boiling mud pool to safely admire the wonders. There is a signpost at the junction 5.5 kilometers from the Taupo Visitor Information Center. Taupo Lake has a moderate water temperature and is suitable for swimming and boating in winter. There are islands, over 100 water bays, and hundreds of shallow beaches in the lake. The world-renowned rainbow trout fishing area is here, where tourists can rent boats to fish in the lake or enjoy the tranquil scenery on the lake. There are also steam cliffs and various mineral bath facilities, making it a popular resort. Water activities can be enjoyed all year round, including water skiing, parasailing, jet skiing, fishing, lake tours, swimming, rowing, kayaking, sailing, and water plane sightseeing. As a popular destination for off-season travel, New Zealand's summer and autumn seasons from January to March are the best months for tourism, with suitable temperatures for travel. While you are still hiding from the cold wind in China, New Zealand in the southern hemisphere is sunny with beautiful lake views.