Girls on tour

Ahhhh, there’s nothing like arriving in Taupō, seeing the great lake and breathing that crisp, fresh air. It’s begun. Survey your home for the weekend, get a selfie in front of the #LoveTaupō sign and cruise along the lakefront before checking into your accommodation. From our cosy and carefree options, to our feeling fancy and a little posh offering, get checked into your diggs, dump the golf clubs and soak up what’s left of the day.

If the evening is set for clear skies, then there is no better place to have an afternoon wind-down than the Two Mile Bay Sailing Club. Growing evermore famous as a standout location for a lakefront drink and woodfire pizza, this recently refurbished eatery offers spectacular views across the lake, a ‘truly Taupō’ atmosphere with live music from Friday to Sunday and open 7 days a week. Here you can fess up to how much - or how little - practice you’ve done for the golf trip. Tonight is the chance to connect with friends. The sailing club is close to most local accommodation options - evening plans sorted.

Start your day before the fairways at Baked with Love, an eccentric café built from shipping containers and scrumptious treats. It's the perfect spot to catch up over Kiwi classics like eggs benne, or something with a twist like doughnut French toast.

Once you’re all fuelled up for the day’s main event - your mid-morning tee time at Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is calling. Take a walk on the broad side, New Zealand’s very own Jurassic Parklands. Since 1970, Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary has been a golfing magnet - no matter what type of golfer you are. The evergreen fairways, predator-free enclosure, enchanting and abundant wildlife, endangered Takahē, foraging Kiwi and endearing architecture delights ensure this girls’ trip is a winner!

Then, some much-deserved R&R. Why not treat yourselves to some spa treatments? Feeling sufficiently relaxed, it is time to soak in the geothermal mineral waters of the Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa. This adult-only facility is one of the most relaxing spots in Taupō. After a long day on the course, there is nothing better than a soak and a hot-stone, relaxation or deep-tissue massage, designed to revive the body for another day of beautiful memories with the girls.

This evening get glammed up and head out onto the water for something unique – a sunset dinner onboard with Doughboats. In warmer months, bring your togs, or in chilly months, cozy up with blankets. These inflatable, motorised doughnuts are designed for cruising the lakefront at leisure for up to six people. Bring your own food and drink or opt for a catering option of pizzas or a grazing platter.

This two-hour cruise gives you plenty of time to soak in the views of the lake and surrounding mountains while you enjoy a meal and conversation with friends. Swimming is also permitted off the Doughboat should you feel like a dip.

Brunch at Lake Bistro has one of the most stunning views of Lake Taupō, and some of the best brunch drinks to put a pep your swing! Enjoy the sunshine all-year round on the terrace before another morning of golf your gal pals.

A round of golf at Tauhara Golf Course (bookings recommended) - the perfect bounce back from the ‘bigger’ and more difficult Wairakei. Part of the Taupō Golf Club, Tauhara Golf Course welcomes golfers of all types to meander across flat and encouraging golfing terrain. An entry-level option, with a slower pace and unimpeded views of ever-present Mount Tauhara. Come for 9, 18 holes, or any number you choose.

To complete the day following golf, how about a spot of retail therapy? For a small town, Taupō’s shopping punches WAY above its weight. With a vast array of fashion boutiques like Charlie Who and Jak&Co, homeware stores like SpaceCraft, funky galleries and so much more, the girls are all sure to update their wardrobes, find fantastic gifts and deck out their homes with designer wares.

For a perfect way to recount all the birdies and bogies of the day while indulging in wine and tapas, make your way to Vine Eatery & Bar. This charming spot boasts an impressive selection of over 150 wines alongside a delightful and imaginative cocktail list. It's the ultimate place to raise a toast and create unforgettable memories during your fabulous girls' trip!

Check out of your accommodation, reminiscing on the memories made. Here are a couple of golf options to round out the girls' golf trip.

All golf trips to Taupō require a couple of balls hit at Lake Taupō's Hole in One challenge - see if you can hit the green, and dunk a couple in the lake too!

Alternatively, and if you’re travelling northbound on your way home, we highly recommend checking out the country courses Mangakino or Reporoa. Nine holes (or more) at these gorgeous spots is a great wind down in an idyllic countryside setting.