Coming to Taupō for Christmas? Here’s what’s on!

You might like your Xmas holiday action-packed, or perhaps you prefer the ‘less-is-more’ approach. But whatever you’re looking for, we’re sure you’ll find it right here in Taupō.

Here’s our wrap-up of what’s on this festive season: 

• Christmas lunches and dinners
• Last-minute shopping
• Get together with these holiday activities

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Christmas lunches and dinners

The Brantry 

Spend Christmas Eve at The Brantry Restaurant. Their incredible menu will have you feeling all kinds of joy, and outdoor dining in their courtyard is just delightful. It is the perfect place for a celebratory glass of bubbles.

Roquette Taupō

One of Taupō’s newest restaurants, Roquette, is set to serve a delicious lunch on Christmas Day. Check out their Facebook page to see the menu and what times they have available to book!

Millennium Hotel & Resort Manuels Taupō

You don’t have to be staying at Millennium Hotel & Resort Manuels Taupō to enjoy their amazing buffet lunch on the 25th of December. There’s two seating times - 12:00pm to 1:30pm and 2:00pm to 3:30pm.

Bistro Lago

You had to be quick to get into Bistro Lago at the Hilton Lake Taupō, as lunch and dinner on Christmas Day are already booked out. But they are happy to put people on a waitlist, so call and speak to the friendly team. You could even have a Christmas Eve or Boxing Day drink here instead - the view up there is incredible.

Vine Eatery

Check out Vine Eatery in the heart of Taupō township, where you can share tasty tapas with the family or have a catch-up cocktail with friends. It’s a popular spot for Boxing Day!

Last-minute shopping

Lava Glass

Shop for last-minute Christmas presents at the amazing Lava Glass gallery, and while you’re there, grab a bite to eat at the cafe. They are open until 4pm on the 24th of December for all your unique gifting needs.

Market Central Taupō

The Christmas Eve Sunday Market at Northcroft Reserve (next to the mini golf) will be a biggie! Packed with makers and creators from near and far, it’s a fantastic space to grab some great eats and treats.

Market Central Taupō also hosts Dinner by the Lake, which is every Thursday from 21st of December to the 8th of February.

Holiday activities and events 

Ernest Kemp

If you’re up for an adventure on Christmas Day, jump aboard the Ernest Kemp - a gorgeous, replica steamboat that will take you on a little journey around the lake edge before heading to the Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings. It’s a wonderful way to add something extra special to your day.

Doughboats Lake Taupō

Book a self-guided cruise, pack a picnic and dine out on a Doughboat on Christmas Day. These little boats are so much fun, take up to six people, and you can BYO food and drink. Feliz Navidad!

Huka Prawn Park

Pre or post-Christmas Day, why not head to Huka Prawn Park? Spend a few hours with the family riding pedal boats, following an adventure walk with interactive experiences and getting wet with fun water activities! Bring a picnic or head to the Riverside restaurant and dine alfresco next to the mighty Waikato River.

Hukafalls Jet

Buckle up for an unforgettable adventure this Christmas day at Hukafalls Jet! Picture this: the Huka Falls, with their awe-inspiring power, are right in front of you, offering water-level views that'll leave you breathless. So, why not make your Christmas memorable this year with a heart-pounding journey through the beautiful Taupō region? It's a festive celebration you'll cherish in a place you'll love.

Le Currents

Grab yourself a couple of tickets and a couple of friends, and head to the Le Currents festival on the 27th of December in Taupō. With an epic lineup of indie and house music, don’t forget your dancing shoes!

PAK’n’SAVE Taupō Summer Festival

Enjoy an exciting day out at the Taupō Raceway, starting from midday on the 30th December 2023. Perfect for all ages, there’s free kids activities, ‘Fashion in the Field’, refreshments and country racing.

Taupō Summer Carnival

The Mega Fun Carnival is coming to town and opens at 6pm on Boxing Day! Located in Tongariro Domain with rides, foods and games - everyone is sure to have a blast.

The Taupō region is a popular place over the Christmas and summer season, and it’s not hard to see why. So if any of the above sounds good to you, we recommend that you book now to avoid disappointment.

We look forward to seeing you soon.