Taupo is located at the outlet of Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake, where it debouches into the Waikato River. The river flows over one of New Zealand's most spectacular waterfalls, Huka Falls, north of the town.

With a population of 22,600 (June 2011) and its name derives from Māori "Taupō-nui-a-Tia". Literally translated, this means "The great cloak of Tia" where Tia is the name of the Maori who discovered the lake.

Taupo is a centre of volcanic and geothermal activity and hot springs suitable for bathing are located at several places in the vicinity.

 When you require a hotel in Taupo, look no further than Millennium & Copthorne Hotels.