Located in the Central North Island region
The Taupō area owes its spectacular scenery to its location in an active volcanic zone. Violent eruptions have occurred over millions of years creating the caldera (collapsed volcano) filled by the waters of Lake Taupō, extensive lava plateaux and other volcanic landforms such as Mt Tauhara.
Ash layers, ignimbrite cliffs, pumice and carbonised wood fragments provide constant reminders of a history of volcanic upheaval.
Attracted by the lake and thermal resources, the area was settled by Maori in the late 14th century, becoming a stronghold for the Ngati Tuwharetoa people. European visitors came to the scenic heart of the North Island in the middle of the 19th century and settled here from about 1860.
| Taupo Office | |
| Phone: | +64 7 376 0072 |
| Email: | taupo@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
37 Motutaiko Street Taupo 3330 |
| Postal Address: |
PO Box 528 Taupo 3351 |
| Full office details | |