Taupō is a thermal wonderland so it’s no surprise it’s a firm favourite among Kiwis for a cheeky getaway at any time of the year—in fact, it ranks as one of the most sought-after destinations in Aotearoa according to booking.com. After all, whether you’re into history and culture, hiking or taking a (very) refreshing dip in sparkling blue waters, Taupō’s got you.
Better still, when it comes to accommodation, there are a bunch of motels, hotels and Airbnbs that promise bang for your buck and a great stay while being earth-lovin’ and sustainable which we think is pretty neat.
So, without further ado, here are some of the best motels in Taupō to check in at.
Taupo Debretts Spa Resort
Napier-Taupo Road, Taupo
Three words: warm water playground. Yes siree, with outdoor and private thermal pools, freshwater pools and a kids’ water slide (see main article image above), Taupo Debretts Spa Resort isn’t messing around when it comes to a good time.
Take your pick from studio units to spa chalets, villas to luxury lodges then reward yourself for all that getaway planning by committing your bod to some much-needed TLC with a manuka mud facial, a hot volcanic stone massage, a thermal mud wrap or one of their indulgent packages because you’re worth it (yep, not above a cheeky L’Oréal reference).
Baycrest Thermal Lodge
Mere Road, Taupo
No trip to Taupō would be complete without sliding into a steamy thermal pool and if you stay at Baycrest Thermal Lodge you get exactly that—in natural tub and spa bath form, no less—plus it’s only 100 metres from the shores of Lake Taupō so you can soak up the good times in your choice of setting.
Boasting luxuriously large rooms, garden courtyards, and private balconies with superb lake views you’re in for a gorgeous stay. And we’re awarding bonus points because they offer free on-site EV charging. Score.
The Reef Resort
Lake Terrace, Taupo
If you’re bringing the troops to Taupō you’re going to need some space and, preferably, a heated pool, plenty of geothermal-spiked hot tubs and a BBQ (or four). Luckily, The Reef Resort delivers on all of the above, and so much more.
We’re so stoked about their bike hire and the nearby Lion’s Walk lakefront path that we know you’ll have an epic time racing along. Accommodation at this gem of a Taupō motel is self-contained, for ease, and it’s linked to the nearby golf course so you can have a great time pretending to play golf while gallivanting around in the golf carts.
The Village Resort
Lake Terrace, Taupo
For accommodation in the centre of Taupō look no further than The Village Resort. And there are no trade-offs here—along with the enviably central location (a stone’s throw from all the central haunts if hucking stones is your jam), you’ll be treated to a heated outdoor swimming pool, a private spa pool, a playground, private bathrooms and glorious views of Lake Taupō. Damn. Damn Daniel, even.
After more options? Check out the best hotels and the best Airbnbs that Taupō has to offer.
Image credit: booking.com.
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