On the Road to Taupō: Scenic Stops and Hidden Gems
New Zealand is a land of contrasts, where lush forests meet ancient caves, and serene lakes sit beside geothermal wonders. For travellers with a thirst for adventure and a desire to explore, the journey from Waitomo Village to Taupō offers the perfect mix of thrills, natural beauty, and fascinating history. The drive itself is only just over 150 km or about two hours, so why not take your time and go for a wander every now and then!?
Start in Waitomo Village: A World Beneath the Earth
Waitomo District, famous for its underground wonders, is your starting point. Begin your adventure with a visit to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. The guided boat tour through these limestone caves is an otherworldly experience. As you glide through the darkness, thousands of tiny glowworms light up the cave ceiling like stars in the night sky—a sight that will stay with you long after you’ve left New Zealand’s shores.
If you’re seeking more adrenaline, don’t miss the Black Water Rafting. This thrilling experience involves navigating the underground rivers of the Waitomo Caves on an inner tube, jumping off waterfalls, and floating through pitch-black tunnels. It’s an adventure that combines the beauty of the caves with the excitement of the unknown.
Otorohanga: The “Most Kiwi” of Kiwi Towns?
Leaving Waitomo and heading north, your next stop is the small town of Otorohanga. Known as “Otorohanga, Kiwiana Town,” it’s a great place to get a taste of authentic New Zealand culture. Wander through the main street, where you’ll find quirky murals and sculptures that celebrate all things Kiwi. Just about everything that is quintessentially Kiwi can be seen in the Sir Edmund Hillary Walkway in the middle of town, from the Buzzy Bee kids’ toy, pavlova, gumboots and school milk to the haka, and the vote for women (New Zealand gave women the vote in 1893, the first country in the world to do so).
While you’re here, visit the Otorohanga Kiwi House. This wildlife park is one of the best places in the country to see New Zealand’s native birds, including the elusive Kiwi. Learn about the conservation efforts to protect these unique creatures and see them in a naturalistic nocturnal environment.
On the Road to Taupō: Scenic Stops and Hidden Gems
Turning back and taking the southern route of State Highway 30, you’ll drive through Te Kuiti. Te Kūiti has branded itself as the sheep-shearing capital of New Zealand. During the town's annual Great New Zealand Muster (NZ Autumn), between 1,000 and 2,000 sheep run down the main street. Local beauty spots include the Tatsuno Japanese Garden, Te Kūiti Lookout, Mangaokewa Scenic Reserve and Shearing Statue.
The Maori meeting house, Tokanganui-a-Noho is beautifully carved and can be visited by arrangement.
One of the most stunning stops is Pureora Forest Park. This ancient forest is home to towering native trees, rare birds, and breathtaking views. If you’re up for a good hike, the Mt. Pureora Summit Track offers a moderate climb with panoramic views at the top—perfect for those Instagram-worthy photos.
For a more leisurely stop, try the Mangakino Suspension Bridge. This picturesque spot is ideal for a picnic or a short walk, with the Waikato River flowing peacefully beneath you. It’s a hidden gem that many travellers miss, but it’s well worth the stop for a moment of tranquillity.
Mangakino is great for mountain biking; it sits in the middle of two of the North Island's best tracks - the Waikato River Trails and the Timber Trail, that run alongside rolling farmland and through beautiful New Zealand native bush. Nearby are the Whakamaru, Maraetai, Waipapa, Atiamuri, and Ohakuri hydroelectric lakes and dams, which are all popular for swimming, boating, fishing and hiking.
Arriving in Taupō: Adventure Awaits
Finally, you’ll reach Taupō, a town that sits on the shores of New Zealand’s largest lake, Lake Taupō. The lake itself is a caldera formed by a massive volcanic eruption around 26,500 years ago, giving the area a unique geological history.
For adventure seekers, Taupō is a playground and is a very popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It can get a little busy during the peak holiday periods. You can skydive over the lake for an unforgettable view, bungee jump at the Taupō Bungy, or take on the white-water rapids of the Tongariro River. At Huka Falls, you can witness the phenomenon of natural hydropower, with more than 220,000 litres of water per second barreling over an 11-meter-high waterfall. For a more relaxing experience, soak in the natural hot springs at Otumuheke Stream, where the hot water from geothermal springs mixes with the cool river.
A Journey to Remember
The trip from Waitomo Village Chalets to Taupō is more than just a drive—it’s a journey through some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes and thrilling adventures. Whether you’re exploring underground wonders, hiking through ancient forests, or leaping into the unknown, this route offers something for every traveller with an adventurous spirit. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the heart of New Zealand.
