You will find everything needed for a self-catered stay right on the grounds. The camp kitchens are spacious and well-maintained, providing a social hub for preparing meals, while the BBQ areas are ideally placed for a quick dinner while keeping an eye on the kids.

The highlight of the resort is Lusty’s Lagoon. As New Zealand’s only swim-up bar, it offers a unique tropical vibe in the middle of the North Island. You can swim right up to the edge for a cocktail or a local craft beer, or grab a table at the poolside café for wood-fired pizzas, burgers and snacks. It is the kind of place where lunch easily turns into an afternoon of lounging by the heated pools.

If you are venturing into town for a caffeine fix, The Storehouse is the go-to. It is tucked away in an industrial area but the interior is warm and stylish, serving some of the best coffee in the region alongside a fantastic brunch menu.

For a casual meal with a view that is hard to beat, head to Two Mile Bay Sailing Club. This iconic spot sits right over the lake, making it the perfect place to share a pizza and a few drinks as the sun sets. If you are after a more polished dining experience, Vine Eatery & Bar in the heart of Taupo delivers excellent Mediterranean sharing plates and a great atmosphere for a night out.

You could easily spend your entire trip within the resort grounds and never feel like you have missed out. Lusty’s Lagoon is the social heart of the park, where you can watch a movie from the warmth of the thermally heated pool or take a turn on the waterslides. For those with a bit more energy, the pump track is a magnet for kids on wheels, while the jumping pillow and mini-golf course keep the competitive spirit alive.

If you are looking to explore, AC Baths is right next door and offers a more traditional public pool experience with its own set of slides and private mineral soaks. For a more natural experience, the walk from Spa Park to Huka Falls is a local essential. It is a relatively easy two-hour return track that winds along the Waikato River, leading you to the viewing platforms where you can witness the incredible power of the water as it is forced through the narrow rock gorge.

To see the famous Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay, you will need to get out on the water. A scenic cruise on a replica steamboat is a relaxed way to take in the 14-metre-high carvings, but for a closer look, a guided kayak tour allows you to paddle right up to the base of the cliffs.

If your visit falls on a Sunday, head into town for Market Central Taupo at Northcroft Reserve. It is a fantastic spot to pick up local crafts and fresh produce, with plenty of ready-to-eat stalls for a casual brunch by the lake.

When checking in, we recommend putting your name down for any pedal kart or tennis court hire, as these slots can book out during peak periods.