WAIKATO: TAUPO

UPDATE: 1-Jan-2018

Freedom Camping is no longer allowed in the marina carpark.

Lake Taupo Marina is a prime location with sealed parking right on the lake front, and within walking distance to the town centre. Overnight parking is allowed for self-contained vans for a maximum of 2 consecutive nights.

This is a stunningly beautifuly location, and on a clear day, you mght see snow capped Mt Tongariro in the distance.

You can feed the wildlife, take a plane or boat cruise, walk into town through the rose garden, or just chill out and watch everyone else.

We arrived late afternoon, mid-week in late spring, and walked up into town to find somewhere to eat out. Taupo is a visitor-oriented town, and you are spoilt for choice with restaurants and bars. We found a small Thai restaurant that did the trick for us.

Parking overnight is free, but the parking area is not large, so it would pay to get there early if you are arriving in the summer holiday season.

There is another free parking area overlooking the lake in Ferry Road, should there be no room.

UPDATE: 22-Nov-2014

The marina parking is often very busy during the day, especially if there is a regatta, or some other function. There is now a sign at the entrance that only allows overnight parking between 7pm and 9am.

This is a real shame as it is a fantastic location during the day, and not every day is busy.