Local Experiences in Taupō

Aerial view of a large body of water with cliffs and greenery along the shoreline, partly cloudy sky.
Your Space Taupō logo icon

Taupō is full of experiences to help you connect — with nature, with your travel companion(s), and with yourself. 

From the sparkling lake and surrounding mountains to the region’s geothermal wonders and hidden gems, and vibrant local flavours, there’s always something new to discover.

Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, a taste of the region or a little of all three, Taupō offers experiences to suit every pace and style of holiday.

Dining Suggestions

Seasonal Highlights & Experiences

  • A stylized icon of a block of cheese with a circular hole in the center, encased within a light blue monitor or screen outline.

    SUMMER

    Swimming, sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, lakeside picnics, exploring local markets, and visiting galleries.

  • Stylized logo of a black cube with a white shape in the center, surrounded by a blue outline.

    WINTER

    Skiing and snowboarding on Mount Ruapehu, cozy lakeside escapes, and enjoying hearty local cuisine.

  • A black cube with a white flower shape in the center, surrounded by light blue shape.

    ALL YEAR

    Trout fishing, mountain biking trails, walking tracks, scenic drives, geothermal parks, and Huka Falls.

For a full guide to everything Taupō has to offer, check out Love Taupō — the ultimate resource for local attractions, tours, galleries, and seasonal events.

Dining Suggestions

Our Team’s Top 5 Taupō Restaurants

For those looking to explore the culinary side of Taupō, our team has selected five favourite dining destinations. From fine dining to relaxed yet polished local eateries, each offers a memorable experience that reflects the region’s flavours and hospitality.

A person holding a glass of red wine sitting at a reflective glass table. On the table are three tall glasses of beer, a small plate with green olives, a block of cheese, and some breadsticks. The setting appears warm with sunlight coming through a window.

Embra
A highly acclaimed fine-dining restaurant renowned for contemporary cuisine, seasonal ingredients, and beautifully presented dishes. Frequently featured in national food guides, Embra offers a refined dining experience perfect for special occasions.

The Bistro
Elegant and European-inspired, The Bistro is led by experienced chefs and has long been a favourite for refined, memorable dinners in Taupō.

Roquette Restaurant and Bar
Stylish and modern, Roquette combines creative dishes with exceptional service. Its inviting atmosphere makes it a standout choice for both casual and celebratory meals.

Brantry Eatery
The Brantry is a popular local spot serving modern New Zealand cuisine in a relaxed yet polished setting. Ideal for gatherings that feel both casual and special.

Plateau Bar + Eatery
Offering a casual quality dining experience, Plateau is beloved by locals and visitors alike for its vibrant atmosphere and consistently excellent food.

People dining at a restaurant table with plates of steak, glasses of red wine, a martini, a cocktail, and water, with a window view of an outdoor parking lot and grassy area.

Private Chefs in Taupō

For a little something special, enjoy the experience of a private chef in your Your Space Taupō home.

Perfect for romantic dinners, celebrations, or intimate gatherings, private chefs prepare and serve restaurant-quality meals in the comfort of your accommodation — allowing you to relax and savour the moment without leaving your space.

Close-up of a burger with fried chicken, lettuce, and sauce on a black plate, and a bowl of spicy glazed chicken wings garnished with green herbs on a wooden table.

Chef Nikki — Wild Roots Culinary Concepts
With a fine-dining background shaped by Michelin-level kitchens and luxury hospitality, Chef Nikki creates bespoke menus tailored to your tastes, highlighting seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

Prue Campbell — Yum Food Co.
A highly experienced local chef with decades in private and event catering, Prue offers warm, personalised dining experiences, from tailored in-home meals to interactive cook-along sessions and bespoke events.

Take a Chef
A selection of skilled local chefs — including Peter Feenstra, Aurelien Agbadje, and Clarke Bovaird-Roberts — are available through the Take a Chef platform, each working with you to design a menu that reflects your preferences and dietary needs.

People serving and sharing a whole cooked fish on a wooden platter topped with lemon wedges, garnished with vegetables and radishes in a dining setting.