Click HERE for a map of Taihape and surrounding areas

Taihape is in the central-south region of the North Island and is located on the tourist route State Highway 1.  It is a small, rural town with around 2,000 local residents and although most of its revenue is from the farming and agricultural communities, tourism is now becoming an important economic contribution.

The area was first settled by Maoris in the 1700's and the first Europeans arrived around 1845, with the first foundations of the town started by around 1884, when a rough track was cut through from Napier, that was to be the main railway line.  The town became an important railway town due to its location, and it became a key transportation town for the whole area.

Taihape lies in a sheltered valley, surrounded by hills and fertile high plains on the perimeter of the Ruahine Mountian range, which are ideal for the deer and sheep farming.  This also offers amazing views in all directions.

Located near the convergence of 2 major rivers, the Hautapu and Rangitikei Rivers, which together with the lush forests and surrounding countryside, offers many outdoors activites for visitors to experience.  These include fishing, hiking and walking paths and trails, horse riding and treks, scenic and whitewater rafting, bungy jumping, Flying Fox and the world's highest tandem swing, with a 50 metre freefall!

To celebrate its rural location, and image, the town holds an annual 'Gumboot Day' (or wellies, to us!), a huge community funday, with gumboot throwing contest, a parade, stalls, sideshows and fair rides.  The Gumboot Day, usually held in mid-march every year, has become a popular attraction nationwide as well as locally, and visitors are always welcome to join in.

There are several cafes, bars and restaurants in the town to satisfy your appetite, and similarly, a number of accommodation options, from hotels, motels, B & B's, lodges, and home and farmstays.

ACCOMMODATION DETAILS AND PRICES ARE CURRENTLY BEING CREATED, IF YOU NEED DETAILS AND PRICES AT THIS TIME PLEASE CALL OUR RESERVATIONS TEAM.