Visit Taupō

Bex
Jun 16
4 min read

A Visitor's guide for great things to see and do in Taupō this winter

Named one of the world’s top destinations for 2025 by Booking.com and CNN, a Taupō winter weekend is a beloved tradition for many in Hawke’s Bay. Beyond the well-known highlights, Taupō also offers a range of exceptional hidden gems – from outstanding dining and quirky boutique shopping to fun all-weather activities. Whether you’re travelling with kids, escaping with your other half, or planning a girls’ weekend, Taupō has the perfect winter break waiting for you

For Breakfast- L’Arté Café and Gallery

A beloved Taupō breakfast spot, known for its all-day menu, Allpress coffee, and vibrant mosaic garden. With a quirky art gallery and unique ceramics made onsite, it’s the perfect place to start your day – and maybe even find a special gift to take home.

Find L'Arte Café:

255 Mapara Road, Acacia Bay, Taupō 3385

www.larte.co.nz/

For Coffee-Espresso Cove

Perched on the edge of Lake Taupō, Espresso Cove is a must-visit for coffee and food. Relax with a quality brew, a delicious meal or a sweet treat while soaking up the panoramic lake views. This warm, welcoming spot serves breakfast, brunch and lunch, along with a tempting selection of cabinet food.

Find Espresso Cove:

1 Lowell Place, Waipahihi, Taupō 3330

https://www.lovetaupo.com/en/operators/espresso-cove/

For Interiors- Elsbeth & Olive

This charming boutique offers a curated collection of beautiful interiors, homewares and gifts. Run by a mother-daughter duo who believe that creating a cosy, aesthetically pleasing home adds to everyday happiness, it's the perfect place to find that special something for your space – right in the heart of Taupō.

Find Elsbeth & Olive

15 Te Heuheu Street, Taupō 3330

www.elsbethandolive.co.nz

For Gift Shopping- Spacecraft

A boutique offering unique products that make you and the planet happy. Find carefully curated ‘cool stuff’, homewares, fashion and gifts that inspire. With a passion for NZ artists, handcrafted objects and sustainable products, the team pride themselves on knowing the story behind the maker.

Visit Spacecraft:

47 Te Heuheu Street, Taupō 3330

https://www.spacecraftcreative.co.nz/

For Homegrown Fashion- EDNA

Taupō’s bold fashion destination, EDNA offers unique, sustainable styles that embrace self-expression and inclusivity. Showcasing international brands, homegrown Kiwi designs and limited-edition local pieces, EDNA is a space for conscious fashion lovers to explore individuality, sustainability and vibrant creativity.

Find EDNA:

44 Te Heuheu Street, Taupō 3330

https://edna.co.nz/

For Lunch- Jimmy Coops

The love child of the award-winning team behind Lakeman Brewing Company and a couple of legendary Taupō restaurateurs, Jimmy Coops is the go-to spot for epic beers, juicy burgers and outstanding street eats. Overlooking the stunning views of Lake Taupō and the mighty mountains, it’s a must-visit for great food, drinks and atmosphere.

Find Jimmy Coops:

10 Roberts Street, Taupō 3330

https://jimmycoops.co.nz/

For a Soak- AC Baths

The perfect all-season, family-friendly destination, this spot offers thermally heated indoor and outdoor pools. Enjoy a relaxing sauna, two hydro slides, a Tarzan swing, or simply warm up with a coffee at the cosy café. It’s a fun-filled escape for the whole family, rain or shine.

Find AC Baths:

26 AC Baths Avenue, Tauhara, Taupō 3330

https://www.taupodc.govt.nz/recreation/swimming-pools/ac-baths

For a Whole Day's Fun- Dropzone

Taupō’s ultimate all-in-one destination for fun, thrills and laughter! Challenge yourself with tenpin bowling, an outdoor ninja course, arcade games, and an indoor playground and bounce park. Or simply sit back, relax and enjoy a drink and a meal while the action unfolds around you.

Find Dropzone

650 Lake Terrace, Wharewaka, Taupō 3330

https://www.thedropzone.co.nz/

For the Whole Family- Swinger's Putt Putt

For some light-hearted competition with no golf skills required, add Swingers to your itinerary. This 18-hole mini golf course takes you on a fun journey through the Central Plateau, showcasing Taupō’s unique geography and the region’s iconic adventure tourism attractions.

Find Swingers Putt Putt

650 Lake Terrace, Wharewaka, Taupō 3330

https://www.swingersputtputt.co.nz/

For an Adventure- Venture Beyond

This unique boat tour experience departs from Kinloch and takes you to Lake Taupō’s hidden gems. Explore the remote Western Bays, where you’ll find majestic cliffs, private beaches, crystal-clear waters and stunning waterfalls – all far from the crowds. It’s a must-do adventure for those looking to explore off the beaten track.

Find Venture Beyond:

Kinloch Marina, Berth 37/10 Kinloch, Esplanade, Kinloch 3377

https://www.venturebeyond.nz

Take a Class- Quirky Pottery

A vibrant Taupō studio and gallery run by award-winning artist Didi Chapman, this creative space offers hands-on pottery classes, unique handmade pieces and local art. It’s the perfect stop for visitors wanting to try something new or find a one-of-a-kind treasure.

Find Quirky Pottery:

45 Oruanui Street, Taupō 3330

https://www.lovetaupo.com/en/operators/quirky-pottery-gallery-and-studio/

For a Date Night- Embra

For a truly memorable date night, head to Embra, where French and British techniques meet modern Kiwi cuisine. Enjoy locally sourced, seasonal dishes that celebrate Aotearoa’s finest produce. With a two-hat rating from the Cuisine Good Food Guide, Embra delivers flavour, finesse and unforgettable dining.

Find Embra:

97A Kaimanawa Street, Taupō 3330

https://embra.nz/

For Dinner- Lionel's Bistro & Bar

For a delicious dining experience, Lionel’s Bistro & Bar is a must. Their Mediterranean-inspired menu showcases some of New Zealand’s finest produce, featuring handmade pasta and a selection of great sharing plates. With vibrant flavours and beautifully plated dishes, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed, flavoursome evening out.