Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
25/08/2025
Gaurav Kumar, Pexels
Taupō's bar and drinking scene offers a vibrant and social atmosphere, catering to diverse preferences with quality craft beverages, delicious food, and often picturesque lake views.
Entertainment and Music:
Taupō offers a lively, yet relaxed, entertainment scene focused on local pubs and significant annual music festivals, catering to visitors seeking both casual nights out and larger events.
For live music, Rosemary's Pub provides a vibrant dive bar atmosphere, regularly featuring local bands playing rock, punk, and Kiwi anthems. Two Mile Bay Sailing Club offers a more laid-back, family-friendly lakefront setting with live music, complementing its dining and water activities. Finn's Bistro & Beer Garden also hosts a variety of live events. Beyond these regular venues, the annual Taupō Summer Concert Series brings international artists to an outdoor amphitheatre, creating a notable event for music enthusiasts.
1. Plateau Bar + Eatery
Type: Gastropub
Expect a lively and energetic setting, with a focus on contemporary New Zealand dishes and an excellent selection of craft beers. The rustic-chic interior and outdoor seating area are ideal for enjoying the evening.
Getting There: The venue is centrally located within Taupō's main area and is easily accessible by walking.
2. Vine Eatery & Bar
Type: Wine & Tapas Bar
Here, one finds a delightful fusion of New Zealand and Mediterranean flavours, with an extensive tapas selection and a curated list of over 150 wines. The ambiance is both sophisticated and casual, perfect for a relaxed evening.
Getting There: Situated in the heart of Taupō, it is within easy walking distance from the main town centre.
3. Crafty Trout Brewing Co.
Type: Craft Brewery & Taproom
This brewery offers a unique experience, blending an Austrian-inspired beer hall charm with a Kiwi fishing aesthetic. It provides a cozy and quirky atmosphere, serving a rotating selection of house-brewed craft beers alongside hearty food.
Getting There: Located on Tongariro Street, it is easily reachable on foot from the central area of Taupō.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.