Discover Libby O'Brien's Taupo

Libby loves nothing better than a fish in the early morning followed by an afternoon of bike riding.

Fishermen (and women) are notoriously secretive of their favourite fishing spots. Libby O'Brien is no different. Luckily the rivers and lakes of the Taupo region are teeming with brown and rainbow trout. Visit a local fishing shop in Taupo or Turangi to find the current hot spots. Or for more guidance, why not hire a fishing guide for the day? An experienced guide can teach you fly fishing techniques as well as let you in on the secret spots.

In the afternoon, discover one of the 50km of trails in Craters Mountain Bike Park. The trails cater for all abilities and run in and out of exotic pine and eucalyptus plantations, with some stunning views of Lake Taupo and the Waikato River. The volcanic pumice soils allow for year round riding with free draining qualities that are not found anywhere else in New Zealand.

After a busy day, wind down in one of Libby's favourite restaurants Vine Eatery and Bar. Indulge in a bottle of wine from the vast range on offer over tapas or from the full a-la-carte menu for those wanting a more traditional kiwi approach to dining. 

Along the shores of Lake Taupo lies a network of 84km of grade 3 bike trails called the Great Lake Trails. With spectacular views of Lake Taupo and Tongariro National Park, passing sparkling waterfalls and native forest, the pumice-rich soil makes it ideal riding all year round. Libby says ‘You feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, with amazing scenery. There are four sections – pick one and do it.' Make your day's ride more relaxing by organising transport, a guide to ride with you or an e-bike to take the pressure off your legs. 

After a long day in the water or on the saddle, Libby likes to unwind in Wairakei Terraces, one of Taupo’s geothermal healing hot pools. This adult only complex features hot pools of varying temperatures where weary muscles can unwind in mineral-rich healing waters. ‘It is really peaceful and lovely. I’m always falling off my bike so this is where I go when I have really bashed myself up!’

There's nothing quite like a boat trip on Lake Taupo. Take a private fishing charter or a scenic cruise to the Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings, New Zealand's most extraordinary art work. The lake is dotted with secluded beaches and bays where you can anchor up, enjoy a meal, music, a book and gaze at the mountains.

For some retail therapy, Libby visits local retailer Spacecraft. ‘This cute little place is owned by a couple of local women who started in their garage. It has the best selection of house plants I’ve ever come across, a cool selection of NZ made clothing and bags and all the things you don’t think you need but definitely do.'

A coffee fix is often needed to fuel Libby’s busy days. One of her favorites is Taupo institution, Replete Café. Established in 1993, it is a favourite with locals and visitors alike. ‘It’s an old favourite of mine. You can’t go past it for coffee.’

Finish off your day with a trip to Huka Falls. The most-visited natural attraction in New Zealand, nearly a quarter of a million litres of water per second erupts from a natural gorge and thunders 11m into the Waikato River below. Huka Falls are a beautiful walk or bike ride from Taupo town centre through Spa Thermal Park along the banks of the Waikato River.