Winter  2009 has been another great season. Visitors have enjoyed the best weather for exploring Taupo. The Queentown of the North Island
As we move into spring, the snow on the mountains of Tongariro National Park looks amazing from my lounge window. The view is across Lake Taupo to the south.
The Volcanic Loop drive takes you south of Taupo to Turangi at the foot of the 3 sacred mountains. Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngouruhoe. From there drive on to Whakapapa ski zone. Lunch at the village then travel on to Ohakune, Waiouru and return to Taupo via the Desert Road. This scenic day trip is one of the best in NZ.