π³πΏ Ultimate North Island Guide: Taupo + Hidden Gems
π Must-Do in Taupo β«οΈ Huka Falls: "The first North Island sight that took my breath away!" π¦ That vibrant blue rush is pure magic. πΏ Secret Spots (Shhh!) Our Chinese hotel owner spilled the tea on underrated gems (zero mentions on Xiaohongshu!): π Kinloch Village: Mountain biking π΅ + trout fishing π£ + lakeside salmon feasts β we missed the activities but got lost in the views! π Aratiatia Dam: Daily water releases (10AM/12PM/2PM/4PM) β thrilling shotover jet rides (next time!). π΄ Food Rec π² Thai Delight Restaurant: Best Thai in town β pad thai dreams! π‘ Accommodation GOAT: Phoenix Resort π₯ β Private geothermal hot tubs β¨οΈ (natural springs!). β Prime location: 10mins to dam/thermal parks. β Pet-friendly π + family suites with kitchens. π Pro Tips: β No signal in thermal zones β download offline maps! β‘ Dam alarms sound before water releases β donβt panic! β οΈ β’ Hot tubs = lava-hot β cool water first! #NZTravelSecrets #TaupoHotSprings #OffTheBeatenPath