Taupō's annual street art festival, Graffiato, celebrates 10 years next weekend. This year, headline artists include Chimp, Erin Forsyth and Haser and visitors can watch artists at work as they turn Taupō into a living work of art. In conjunction with the anniversary, Taupō Museum is showcasing the history of
Eating, drinking and sleeping in Taupō
Where to drink in Taupō
is the perfect local hangout on Friday evenings. The food is European-influenced, with tapas-style options and larger plates such as pasta, stews and bistro-style mains, and there are excellent cocktail, wine and whisky menus.
Right on the lake, you'll find Two Mile Bay Sailing Club, a favourite among locals, with beer on tap, live music on Sundays, and delicious woodfired pizzas. It's a great spot to hang out with family and friends, enjoy the sunshine, a brew and pizza.
Where to stay in Taupō
You can't beat staying right on the lake. The Millennium Hotel offers waterfront drinks and dining as well as a heated outdoor pool, and a private grotto plunge pool.
For families, Lake Taupo Holiday Resort has a thermally heated pool, a range of room options from camping to villas, and poolside dining. There are safe shallows for the little ones, a swim-up cocktail bar for the adults, treasure for the kids to dive for, and a cave to explore. There's also a pump track, playgrounds and games rooms, outdoor movies and go-carts.
If you want to hire a house on the lake, Lakeside Accommodation has a range of properties to choose from.