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Taupo, Turangi & Tongariro Arts & Culture

Taupo culture, art, museums and heritage

 Waka on Lake Taupo -  Lake Taupo Maori culture and heritage

Lake Taupo history and heritage is built around the Tangata Whenua (people of the land) and the early European settlement of missionaries and the armed constabulary. Taupo history is one of the earliest traditions and legends with many stories dating from pre-European times.

The Taupo region is rich in local Maori history, who have inherited from their ancestors the stories and whakapapa of the Ngatoroirangi and Ngati Tuwharetoa. Come and explore authentic Maori hosting, activities, the iconic kapa haka (dance) and hangi (traditional Maori feast served from an earth oven).

Taupo is a small town buzzing with life, culture and a strong arts community.  Enjoy the diversity of the many Taupo art galleries, museums and crafters and experience entertaining evenings with unique food, amazing wine and great music.

Read more about Great Lake Taupo's:

Legends & Stories

Heritage

Arts & Craft

Browse Lake Taupo Art & Culture below. 

Arts, Cultural and Heritage

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Taupo Museum & Ora Garden of Wellbeing :: click here for more information

Taupo Museum is home to a blend of heritage and culture; from yesterday’s historic treasures to today’s contemporary art. Situated in the heart of Taupo, our museum and art gallery...

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Story Place, Taupo

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Twynham at Kinloch :: click here for more information

Nestled within large private gardens in the picturesque lakeside village of Kinloch - Twynham is unequalled as a base for exploring the delights of the Taupo region. Golf, fishing, watersports...

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84 Marina Terrace, Kinloch, Taupo

$130.00 - $195.00 (NZD)
pureORA walks :: click here for more information

Is the only company who can guide the entire Tongaririo Alpine Crossing track!

pureORAwalks newest product ‘Tongariro Alpine Crossing-Get Over It! On this guided hike guests hear local stories, such as...

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PO Box 2036, Taupo

$75.00 - $1000.00 (NZD)
The Paddleboat Company :: click here for more information

The Paddleboat Company operates the Otunui, a 1907 paddleboat, on Lake Maraetai at Mangakino.

Cruises are for 1 - 2 hrs or to suit, and feature some of the most...

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115 Rangatira Drive, Mangakino, Taupo

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$20.00 - $35.00 (NZD)

Art

41 Runanga Street, Taupo

The Kai Waho Experience :: click here for more information

The Māori phrase Kai Waho can be translated as outdoor cuisine. It can also describe a master, or teacher, of the ways of the wilderness. For guests at Tamau Pā,...

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PO Box 688, Taupo

The Creative Cafe Ltd :: click here for more information

A vibrant, inspiring studio-cafe where you can paint your own ceramics. You choose a piece of pottery, unleash your imagination, and create your own masterpiece. Anyone can do it. Tues-Sat...

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Windy Brae Alpaca Farm, 63 Tuhingamata Rd, Taupo

L'Arte Mosaic Cafe & Sculpture Garden :: click here for more information

L'Arte is a unique mosaic cafe surrounded by an awesome mosaic garden oasis. Without a doubt a cafe with a unique mosaic twist! Open Wednesday to Sunday 9am - 4pm....

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255 Mapara Rd, Acacia Bay, Taupo

Wairakei Terraces :: click here for more information

8 years on and Wairakei terraces continue to offer a unique look back in time; undoubtedly the crowning jewel in this mystical place these silica terraces are magnificent, stunning, amazing...

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Wairakei Road, State Highway 1, Wairakei, Taupo

$18.00 - $95.00 (NZD)
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