Lake Taupo is the largest freshwater lake in Australasia and is 159 meters deep! The Lake is actually a crater of one of the large volcanic eruptions in the last 5000 years. Activities on the Lake are endless and include sailing, water skiing and kayaing to name a few. The numerous tributaries that flow into Lake Taupo provide an adventure playground with white water rafting and jet boating activities just some of the tourism operators offering visitors an experience to remember.

Taupo is a popular summer and winter destination with a variety of activities, events and attractions available during all seasons. The close proximity to Mt Ruapehu's ski fields - Whakapapa on the north-western side and Turoa on the south-western - allows skiing and snow boarding enthusiasts to get their fix while also providing the ultimate destination for a family winter break. When not covered with snow Mt Ruapehu is also a playground for walkers and nature enthusiasts alike.

32,907 people live in the Taupo district according to 2013 national census data. The major industries providing employment in the area are Geothermal Energy, Forestry & Wood Processing, Agriculture, Tourism and Events. Geothermal energy was first harnessed to generate power at the Wairakei Power Station in 1958, the first power station of its kind (wet steam) in the world. The Taupo District has seen a rapid growth in geothermal power generation as it is totally renewable and has the lowest cost base of energy production.

Forestry and Wood Processing continue to be a major industry in Taupo. As the Taupo region is situated within the Central North Island Forestry Zone (CNI Forests), it accounts for a third of the total forestry plantations in New Zealand. 

Dairy Farming is becoming increasingly popular and successful in the Taupo District. With the launch of a new milk processing company, Miraka, and the joint venture between Miraka and Shangahi PengXin to process UHT milk the dairy industry in Taupo has received a boost which in turn has created valuable jobs. 

With almost one million visitors to Taupo each year Tourism is a major economic contributor to the Taupo District and employs 23% of the working population. Natural attractions such as Geothermal Experiences, Volcanic Activity, the stunning Lake Taupo and so much more make it the perfect tourist destination. The growing number of major events held in Taupo also contribute to visitor numbers. With events such as the Contact Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge and other major New Zealand cycling and sporting events. Taupo also hosts many private and public conferences and other events each year where delegates can make the most of the multitude of activities on offer outside of their conference hours. To view a list of events coming up in Taupo click here to go to our What's On page.