Lake Taupo & Rotorua

Lake Taupo fills the crater of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history, and its clear waters and surrounding trout fishing have made it a longstanding stop on New Zealand itineraries. Rotorua, an hour or so north, adds a different dimension: geothermal parks with bubbling mud pools and geysers, alongside a strong Maori cultural presence, including performances and hangi feasts cooked in the earth. Together the two make for a varied few days between Auckland and the South Island.