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 TAUPO
With a population of over 20,000, Taupo is located at the north east of Lake Taupo, the largest freshwater lake in Australasia. The Lake Taupo region is part of the area which stretches from White Island to Tongariro National Park known as the Taupo Volcanic Zone. Taupo and the surrounding area has some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, with rainforests and forest parks, snow-capped mountains, rivers and hot bubbling pools. To the south is the Tongaririo National Park, the oldest national park in New Zealand with three active volcanic mountains, including the most well known, Mount Ruapehu. The stunning Huka Falls near Taupo are the largest falls on the Waikato River and the world’s only geothermal prawn farm can be found on the Huka Falls Road. Located in the heart of the Taupo Volcanic Zone is the Volcanic Activity Centre where you can create your own earthquake. Catch a trout in the lake and cook it for dinner or relax in one of the hot pools. With an adventure park, water playground and lots more, you will find plenty to do in Taupo!
 Ruapehu - The Ruapehu District gets its name from the active volcano, Mount Ruapehu, the highest mountain in the North Island and home to the only glaciers in the North Island. Mount Ruapehu is one of three central plateau volcanoes in the dual World Heritage Tongaririo National Park which is renowned for its Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields. However, the area is more than just a ski resort - with deserts, mountains, lakes, rivers and active volcanoes to explore and a summer temperature of up to 30 degrees, the whole family can enjoy the region at any time of the year.
 Ohakune is a great base for those going to the Turoa Ski Fields and is where you will find most of the hotels, restaurants and shops when you need a break from the slopes. There is always lots going on in Ohakune during the winter to keep all the family entertained, including the annual Ruapehu Mountain Mardi Gras in June and the famous Carrot Carnival. Ohakune also makes a great summer base, being just minutes from the Tongariro National Park and only an hour from Taupo.
Taupo Articles
Aratiatia Rapids and Huka Falls
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