Enjoy A Breathtaking Visit To Huka Falls During Your Stay In Taupo

Taupo, situated in the middle of the North Island of New Zealand, offers visitors a huge array of natural and manmade attractions including the lake itself, the geothermal activity, and the carvings at Mine Bay however, it's the wonder of water than will more than likely remain as a lasting memory during your visit to the area.

Whether you fly into New Zealand from another country or are a New Zealander discovering one more of the amazing places in the country, chances are you will choose accommodation around the edge of the lake, so you can wake to the beautiful view and start your day inspired. If you like to kick off your day with some exercise you'll find plenty of spaces around the lake to partake in tai chi, or take a run, brisk walk or even jump on the mountain bikes.

After you have your fitness fix, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants to refuel in, many within easy walking distance of your accommodation with views of Lake Taupo as well. You'll then be keen to take in some of the attractions and by far the most breathtaking is the Huka Falls.

The word Huka is a Maori word which appropriately means 'foam'. This foam, and the associated water flow and waterfalls is created by a combination of natural events. Firstly there is an overflow of water from the lake, which is fed its pristine fresh water from the local mountains, secondly the normally 100m wide Waikato River is squeezed through a narrow 15-20 metre wide space which was created by volcanic activity, this also resulted in several rather large drops in the level of the land - this combination of squeezing and dropping forces an incredible 220,000 litres of water, per second to flow through the gap, creating a simply incredible amount of force as well as some beautiful waterfalls.

The water itself is mesmerising, the beautiful shades of blue and green, complemented by the white foam are easy to lose yourself in, then as you move along the falls you'll see the awesome power of the water as it drops and churns creating more awe inspiring sights as well as sounds. As the gorge starts to widen towards the end the water starts to calm and it's very relaxing.

You can get to the falls via a five minute drive from the town centre, or choose to take the Aratiatia Rapids Walk or the Spa Park Walk and if you would like to get a little more up close and personal you can even jump in a Jet Boat.