With its geothermal wonders, forest trails and sparkling waters, the drive from Rotorua to Taupō is one of the most rewarding road trips on the North Island of New Zealand. Just 80km separate the two destinations, but the route is dotted with short hikes, restorative soaks and memorable meals to stop and enjoy along the way.

While the drive from Rotorua to Taupō may only take an hour in theory, to rush would be to miss its many rewards. It’s a route that captures the very essence of the North Island of New Zealand.

And with the all-electric Mercedes-Benz EQB 250+ SUV as your companion, every kilometre is made more enjoyable. The intelligence of MBUX Augmented Reality Navigation, and the peace of mind that comes with 564km of NEDC-tested electric-only driving range, ensure the focus can remain on the landscape outside the window. Spacious, comfortable and effortlessly stylish, the EQB SUV transforms a simple drive into a journey worth savouring.

Here, we reveal some of the must-see attractions, local flavours and outdoor adventures from Rotorua to Lake Taupō.

Things to do in Rotorua: culture, cuisine and gushing geysers

Start your adventure by grabbing morning coffee and fresh pastry from Ciabatta, or settle back at Eastwood Café for brunch among the pines, known for its unique setting within the walls of Rotorua’s forestry research institute.

Then it’s time to go exploring. First up is Te Puia, a geothermal park boasting the famous Pōhutu geyser plus mud pools, hot springs and the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute – all a five-minute drive from Rotorua’s centre.

Nearby, there’s also Whakarewarewa Living Māori Village, home of the Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao people who have been sharing their traditions and way of life with visitors for over two centuries. Take a guided tour of the village, explore geothermal nature trails, sample traditional local food, and watch local performers.

If it’s an escape to nature you’re after, take your pick: Hannah’s Bay Reserve offers stunning views and a short walk across the front of Lake Rotorua, and Redwood Forest is known for its towering trees and suspension bridges high among the canopies (no harnesses or training required!). And when it’s time to unwind, head to Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa on the waterfront, where you can soak in mineral-rich pools while gazing across Lake Rotorua. 

Make sure you’ve eaten your fill before you head off on the next leg of your journey. Atticus Finch offers modern New Zealand cuisine featuring inventive small plates while The Fainting Goat serves hearty gastropub fare in the heart of Eat Streat, the central city’s dining and hospitality hub.

Rotorua to Lake Taupō: scenic detours and hidden hot springs

Leaving Rotorua, the drive to Taupō splits into two main routes: State Highway 1, which runs through rolling farmland, or State Highway 5, the slightly longer but more scenic geothermal route. Both offer a wealth of stops that showcase the diversity of the central plateau.

The State Highway 1 route includes a stop at Orakei Korako Geothermal Park and Cave, sometimes called the ‘hidden valley’. Accessible only by ferry across the Waikato River, it’s an otherworldly landscape of silica terraces, geysers and steaming lakes.

Alternatively, on State Highway 5, adventurous travellers can detour to Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve. The climb to the summit is short but steep, rewarding you with panoramic views of the volcanic plateau. Just down the road lies Kerosene Creek, a natural hot stream where warm water tumbles over a small waterfall into bush-fringed pools. It’s a classic central North Island experience – pack swimwear and towels so you can enjoy it fully.

Closer to Taupō, both routes converge near the Aratiatia Rapids, where the release of water from a hydro dam creates a dramatic torrent every few hours.

The EQB SUV’s convenient, optional head-up display and sports seats with memory function will ensure the drive remains calm and comfortable, while the optional Burmester® surround sound system will elevate your road-trip playlist – adding depth and clarity via 12 speakers.

Things to do in Taupō

The moment Lake Taupō appears on the horizon is unforgettable. It’s the largest freshwater lake in Australasia, with a shoreline that stretches as far as the eye can see. The weather in Lake Taupō can shift quickly – bright sunshine one moment, dramatic cloudscapes the next – but that only adds to its beauty. Whatever the forecast brings, the EQB SUV’s panoramic sliding sunroof lets you take it all in, offering uninterrupted views of your spectacular surrounds.

For many visitors, trout fishing is the quintessential Taupō experience; the lake and its rivers are world-famous for their abundance. But there are plenty of things to see in Taupō beyond just the lake.

Among the essential Taupō attractions is the thundering Huka Falls, where the Waikato River squeezes through a narrow gorge. Thrill-seekers may opt for a jet boat ride, while others will enjoy the short walkways that provide the best vantage points.

Then there’s the Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings, a monumental work of contemporary Māori art visible only by boat or kayak across Lake Taupō, and  Craters of the Moon, a 45-minute geothermal walkway through steaming landscapes and colourful soils.

Golfers are spoiled for choice: the Kinloch Club, designed by retired American golfer Jack Nicklaus, ranks among the world’s great championship courses, while Wairakei Golf & Sanctuary pairs manicured greens with native wildlife.

Dining is another highlight of Taupō. Waterside Restaurant, with its contemporary New Zealand fare and floor-to-ceiling views, is a lakefront dining favourite. For a memorable meal with a focus on seasonality and sustainability, try Embra or The Bistro; both are acclaimed for their inventive cuisine celebrating the region’s ingredients.

Whichever you choose, the fresh, local produce and relaxed hospitality make eating out one of the best things to do in Lake Taupō.

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