Lake Taupo is the largest lake in New Zealand, an enormous body of water sitting in a collapsed volcano, fringed with sheer rock faces in parts and flat farmland in others. The town by the same name sits on the north-eastern side of the lake, the glistening waters providing endless water-based entertainment for both locals and visitors alike, such as sailing, kayaking, fishing and swimming.

Slightly more modest than Rotorua, Taupo is an equally good base for the geothermal attractions of the area but with less of the fuss. Indeed, it has its own hidden gems such as the Wairakei Terraces and the ‘Craters of the Moon’ which are smaller but far less visited than some of the more famous attractions in Rotorua. However, places like Wai-o-Tapu and Te Puia are also easily accessible.

For adventure lovers, Taupo is the North Island hub for extreme sports, such as sky-diving, bungee jumping, rafting, jet-boating and mountain biking. However, it is also a lovely place for more genteel activities such as lakeside walks, family-friendly cycling, golf and hot pools. There’s something for everyone here.