Discover the Magic of Southern Lake Taupo
Motuoapa Bay Holiday Park is an ideal spot to relax after a day fishing for our famous rainbow and brown trout. We are not far away from Mount Ruapehu for fun days skiing or hiking New Zealand’s most popular walk, the ‘Tongariro Crossing.’ At the end of a busy day exploring Lake Taupo, we recommend a visit to Tokaanu Thermal Hot Pools. We offer a relaxing lakefront spot to unwind and enjoy the picturesque lake views Motuoapa Holiday Park has to offer.
Huka Falls
Marvel in wonder as nearly a quarter of a million liters of water per second erupt from a natural gorge and thunder 11 m into the Waikato River below. Huka Falls: New Zealand's most visited natural attraction! Visit by car, foot, or boat.
Lions Walk
Voted New Zealand's Favourite Urban Ride in 2017, the Great Lake Pathway (Lion's Walk) is perfectly suited for families and offers spectacular views across Lake Taupo to the snow-capped peaks of Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Ruapehu.
Rock Carvings
The giant Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings on Lake Taupō has been hailed as one of New Zealand’s most extraordinary contemporary Māori artworks. Towering 14 meters above the deep water of Lake Taupō, artist Matahi Brightwell's carvings have become one of the North Island’s biggest tourist attractions.
Taupo's Must Do's
Plan a day trip to Taupo, only 40 km north. There is a huge range of things to see and do for adults and kids, including adventure and adrenaline activities, as well as peaceful nature-based experiences that will get you back in touch with the real world. A rich cultural history and locals who love to share it with visitors.
Explore the Area
Relax and Unwind in our Backyard
Motuoapa
We are located 9 km north of Turangi and 40 km south of Taupo. An easy drive along State Highway One in both directions. We are adjacent to the new Motuoapa Bay Marina and a short walk to the lakefront, a short 100 m walk to the well-known Licorice Cafe. Originally a holiday village, Motuoapa’s beauty and closeness to Turangi have meant that it’s grown into a popular spot year-round, with a friendly population of locals.
There’s plenty to do in the immediate area, including boating from the local marina. Nature lovers will love the Motuoapa Cliff Walk, an easy, short walk to a lookout point with panoramic views over the southern end of Lake Taupo.
Motuoapa Cliff Lookout Walk
Tongariro River Walk
Knoll Ridge Cafe - Mt Ruapehu
Turangi
A short 9 km drive, Turangi has a lot to offer, with fishing as the local obsession. This town sits on the banks of the Tongariro River, which is famous near and far for its rainbow trout. If fishing isn't your vice, explore the Tongariro River Trail, offering gentle riverside rides and stunning native bush. Cross a scenic swing bridge and stop at the Tongariro National Trout Centre for a picnic and learning experience, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Perfect for the whole family.
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Mt Ruapehu
See the Sights, Explore on Foot or Ski or Snowboard
Whakapapa, a world-class adventure playground located on the northern slopes of Mt Ruapehu in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island.
In summer, with the maunga laid bare of its winter coat, we offer sightseeing on the 1.8km Sky Waka gondola, with views across the Central Plateau, down to the unique volcanic terrain, dining at 2020m, and marked walks.
In winter, we operate a world-class ski area spanning 550 hectares. Terrain is formed by solidified lava, making for some of the most exhilarating skiing and snowboarding New Zealand has to offer
