Christmas Getaway at Beautiful Lake Taupo.

Itinerary

DAY ONE                                        L,D 

Today we'll embark on our journey, treating your taste buds to a morning tea along the way at the Trail Kitchen in Whakarewarewa Forest. From here we'll continue our journey to Taupo however before we arrive in town, we'll stop and feel the heat at Lava Glass with a captivating Glass Blowing Experience and look around the Sculpture Garden visit. After our creative insight, we'll head into Taupo to indulge in a tasty lunch and beer tasting at the scenic Jimmy Coops Lakehouse. Overlooking the stunning views of Lake Taupo and the mighty mountains, Jimmy Coops is a great spot for food and beverage enthusiasts seeking a relaxed dining experience. With its unbeatable location and a menu to tantalize your taste buds, it’s no wonder locals and visitors alike flock to this little eatery. We’ll then take our time to explore the charming town of Taupo’s shops and galleries, or you could just find a spot to relax, and people-watch the choice is yours. From here we'll check into the Suncourt Hotel & Conference Centre for a restful evening, concluding with a delectable 2-course dinner onsite. 

DAY TWO                                        B, L, D 

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before wandering over to the lively Taupo Market at Northcroft Reserve. After our relaxing casual morning, we'll carry on to Beehave Craft Meadery for a Tour. This will take you on a journey of the honey from the beehive to the bottle. You’ll have a tasting and the opportunity to purchase some for yourself or a little keepsake. From here it will be time for lunch, which will be at the lovely Riverside Restaurant situated on the Waikato River with lovely views. We’ll end with a guided tour of Huka Prawn Park. We'll then return to the Suncourt Hotel to relax or enjoy the facilities before enjoying dinner at the onsite restaurant in the hotel. 

DAY THREE                                    B, MT, D 

Begin your day with a satisfying breakfast at the hotel and an early departure as our destination is a couple of hours away. Upon arrival, we'll stop for a substantial morning tea. We’ll then prepare for a breathtaking adventure at Ruakuri Cave. This is a senior-friendly cave walk that begins by journeying down through the spectacular, man-made spiral entrance. You will marvel at the softly folding shawl-like limestone formations and crystal tapestries while listening to the distant thunder of subterranean waterfalls. As the tour runs over lunchtime, lunch won't be included today. If you are still peckish after the tour you are welcome to purchase something else from one of the cafes or shops. A comfort stop at the architecturally award-winning Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre is not only home to the entrance of the iconic Waitomo Glowworm Cave, but it also has a restaurant, cafe, exhibition space, and gift store. From here we will meander our way back to Taupo followed relaxing dinner onsite at the hotel’s Restaurant. 

DAY FOUR                                      B, L, D

Wake up to your breakfast onsite. We’ll then take a drive to Taupo Bungy to witness if anyone is taking an adrenaline-pumping bungy jump at AJ Hackett Taupo Bungy & Swing. From here we will make our way to take in the majestic Huka Falls from the lookout and then enjoy some free time in Taupo Township. From midday onwards into the late afternoon, we’ll board the Chris Jolly Cruise for a private charter with a catered lunch. If you would like to catch a trout, there will fishing gear provided or you may just want to view others. This will be at the end of the vessel and won’t deflect from your cruising experience. The charter boats are top-notch experience and allow you to view Taupo’s beautiful backyard which is filled with native bush, clear waters, and wide-open spaces ready for you to enjoy. After our fun-filled day, we'll conclude it with a meal at the hotel's onsite restaurant. 

DAY FIVE    Christmas day           B, L 

Christmas morning starts with an in-room breakfast, followed by a relaxed morning allowing for a leisurely walk or a well-deserved sleep-in. There will be an option to drive out to Kinloch Beach if you desire. For those who would prefer to rest for the morning, we will look at departing the hotel around midday taking our time to get to our afternoon destination. Today’s main event will be our late Christmas 3-course buffet lunch with a glass of bubbles at the Tongariro Lodge Restaurant. This iconic Lodge is located on 22 acres of beautiful park-like grounds, on the banks of the legendary Tongariro River, on the southern shores of Lake Taupo. After our late Christmas lunch, we will make our way back to our accommodation, returning to the Suncourt Hotel for a restful evening after our indulgent meal, full of festive cheer. 

DAY SIX       Boxing Day                B ,L  

Let’s begin Boxing Day with breakfast onsite and then prepare for checkout, taking your bags with you. Our first stop will be to Cruise the Huka Falls River, enjoying a cup of tea or coffee whilst onboard. We’ll then continue to experience the wonders of Wairakei Terraces on a self-guided tour, followed by a catered light lunch at the onsite Wairakei Café. Our journey will conclude with a quick stop in Rotorua to stretch your legs, before arriving back home with cherished memories of your Christmas in Taupo.