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:
Best Activities in Taupo and Tongariro
The central North Island is absolutely packed full of awesome things to do from geothermal to all-action adventure! Whether you are looking for a chilled out few days golfing or you are up for some serious tramping or skiing, Taupo and Tongariro can deliver! Here are some of the best suggestions from our GO Explore fans:
Rent the perfect car for your adventure
Recommended vehicle for exploring Taupo and Tongariro
MITSUBISHI ASX
0-1 year(s) old
The Mitsubishi ASX is the perfect car for exploring Taupo and Tongariro with keyless entry, an 8″ touchscreen entertainment and Apple CarPlay.
5 Seats
1 large bag
2 small bags
Auto Trans
Trip Planner
News and Social
-
DESTINATIONS
9 Active Volcanoes in New Zealand You Can Visit!
Read moreNew Zealand is famed for its picturesque scenery which includes a variety of different landscapes including volcanoes. It’s quite a cool thing to be able to say you’ve stepped foot on a volcano and not something everyone gets the chance to do. We thought we’d make this dream a reality by sharing our favourite active […]
11 October, 2025
-
DESTINATIONS
6 New Zealand Glaciers You Can Visit & Explore
Read moreThinking about exploring one of New Zealand’s glaciers? You’re in luck. We’ve pulled together this list of 6 of the best NZ glaciers which are super accessible and waiting to be explored. Whilst we have highlighted 6 of the best glaciers in New Zealand, an inventory in the 1980s found that there are actually more […]
16 August, 2025
-
DESTINATIONS
20 New Zealand Foods and where you can try them!
Read moreWe’re lucky enough to be a great destination for so many things. Culture and scenery are a given but what’s sometimes missed is the delicious New Zealand food you can enjoy. With some amazing fresh seasonal produce and seafood and some seriously talented chefs, there are some great opportunities to dine well. Very well! Before […]
03 June, 2025
