Also the environs offer many attractions. At first, for sure, the huge Lake Taupo, which is a result of a massive vulcanic eruption about 26500 years ago. Another major attraction are the Huka Falls, only some kilometers away at SH 1 direction Rotorua. Not the height, but she enormous power of the water masses, pressed out of the Huka rapids makes it an impressive sight.

Some km further on the SH 1 the thermal area of Wairakei is located, with it's unique geothermal power plant. It uses the heat inside the earth for generating electric power and can be watched from a scenic area. At the entrance to this area, a small geyser greets the visitors, the associated sulfur smell included, for sure.

For us, Taupo was a stopover on our way to Tongariro National Park. The only way is SH 1 with heavy truck traffic, but we enjoyed many scenic views on the next 50 km along Lake Taupo. There is also much work again for the biker due to the ups and downs all the way.

The other end of Lake Taupo is marked by a narrow bridge, leading to the small village of Turangi. The local motal allows camping on their green, but it's pretty noisy there also in the night, close to the SH 1. Branching off right direction Tokaanu is a good opportunity to camp at the lake, it's only a few kilometers from Turangi. It's much more quiet there, in terms of catering a bit too quiet - bring your own food.

New campgrounds at Turangi on OpenStreetMap

Taupo - Turangi / Tokaanu