The lake

With a surface area of approximately 238 square miles, Lake Taupo is the largest lake in New Zealand. It was formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, with the most recent eruption dated approximately AD 180. On a clear day, from town you can see beyond the lake towards the mountains. On a cloudy day, the lake seems endless, almost like an ocean. The lake is also a noted trout fishery, and many visitors come here to fish in leisure.

Some friends and I recently enjoyed a boat cruise on the lake.

 

On a rock cliff along the lake, there are some Maori carvings famous in Taupo. Interestingly, these carvings are not ancient (to the surprise of many visitors!) but were completed in the late 1970s mainly by students from Wellington. They are meant to protect the lake from volcanic activities.