Waikato - Taupo Region

Waikato is one of the richest agricultural and pastoral areas of the world and is home to New Zealand’s famous dairy and thoroughbred horse racing industries. The area was named after New Zealand’s longest river, the Waikato, which winds 425 kilometres from Lake Taupo on the Central Plateau to the Tasman sea. Before European settlement, the Waikato was heavily populated by Māori. Today, Hamilton, the main city in Waikato, is diverse and home to over 80 ethnic groups. It is also a relatively ‘young city’ with around half its residents under 30 years old.
Lake Taupo is one of the most famous lakes of New Zealand due to its beautiful location, turquoise water and many activities on and around the lake. Tongariro National Park is another highlight in the region, and a climb to the top of Mount Tongariro is a tough but rewarding experience.