Kinloch

Here you can enjoy a relaxing getaway, without being too far from the essentials. And when it comes to immersing yourself in nature - Kinloch will always deliver.

How about grabbing your coffee to go from the Kinloch General Store, then you can wander across to the lakefront for a morning stroll. Afterwards you might enjoy a family-friendly bike ride or walk alongside the picturesque Whangamata Stream, where you may spot a spawning trout, or a troutlet (baby trout) in the trout nursery.

Perhaps the afternoon calls for a round of golf, and to finish up your day, head back to the lakefront with some delicious fish’n’chips or watch the boats return to the marina after a day out on the water.

There are also a number of fantastic off-grid/glamping accommodations located around Kinloch, so make sure you book yourself a stay in one of them, you won’t regret it.

A brief history of Kinloch
The name ‘Kinloch’ means head of the lake, and that’s literally its location as the northernmost bay of Lake Taupō. In 1953, Sir Keith Holyoake (who was the then Deputy Prime Minister of New Zealand) purchased the 5,385 acres - which was largely covered in scrub and fern - in partnership with the Gibbs family.

The plan was to establish it as a holiday destination and in 1959 the first sections were sold, with the Kinloch marina built three years later, in 1962.

Originally known as Whangamata Station, the name change came about so as to not cause confusion with the Coromandel Peninsula township of Whangamata. But there was certainly a bit of commotion when new town signs were installed in 2018 and were misspelt as ‘Kinlock’.

With a permanent population of around 800 residents, it can easily double in size with day visitors and holiday makers during the summer months.

Things to do in Kinloch
If you find yourself spending a few days in Kinloch, make sure you bring your most comfortable shoes - you’ll probably be venturing along some of the well-known biking trails and walking tracks, as well as enjoying the close proximity to the lake (most accommodation is within easy walking distance to the water).

Golf
Kinloch is home to two excellent golf courses, including the Jack Nicklaus-designed Kinloch Club which has been ranked as the best golf course in New Zealand. It’s overlooked by the imposing castle-like luxury lodge The Kinloch Club designed to pay tribute to the township's Scottish heritage and is noted as one of the world’s must-do golf courses.

There’s also the original Kinloch Village Golf Club, where you’ll find a lovely course that winds its way around the friendly neighbourhood - feel free to give a wave to those watching on. Here you can play 10 or 18 holes and visitors are always welcome.

Fishing
If you’re keen for a fish (and it’s one of the best things to do when you’re in Kinloch) most fishing charters are happy to pick you up from the Kinloch Marina. Or if you prefer a bit of fly fishing, there are a few places along the lakefront that make for some great spots for anglers. (Just make sure you grab yourself a fishing licence and know the rules for where and when you can fish).

Mountain Biking
At the village, the Great Lake Trail (part of Nga Haerenga - The New Zealand Cycle Trails network) diverges both east and west. By mountain bike or foot, the bush-clad trail gradually ascends to cliffs above Kinloch where uphill efforts are rewarded with magnificent views right across Lake Taupō.

From Kinloch check out the always popular W2K, K2K, Orakau and Otaketake bike trails. And for the more adventurous, there is the Waihaha Trail which requires a water taxi to access.

Chase Waterfalls
Explore the remote Western Bays of Lake Taupō with Taxicat Adventures, where you’ll discover majestic rock faces, private beaches and incredible waterfalls cascading down cliffs into the crystal-clear waters of the lake. All of these hidden treasures are only accessible by boat and if you’ve come this far to Kinloch, you won’t want to miss out on this truly awe-inspiring experience.

Rock Climbing
If hanging off the side of a cliff is your thing, then you’ll need to check out one of New Zealand’s most popular rock-climbing destinations at Kawakawa Bay. But even if you’re not so enthusiastic about doing the climbing yourself, it’s still pretty spectacular to watch those up for the challenge!

Annual Events
Packing a punch when it comes to events, Kinloch has a number of well-established festivities that come around on an annual basis. To name a few, and depending on the time of year, check out the Kinloch Market, Kinloch Off-Road Challenge, Taupō Ultramarathon and the summer music festival Kinstock.