Kinloch is a small, quietly beautiful lakeside village on the western shore of Lake Taupō, about 20 kilometres from the town centre. It serves as the main gateway to the western Great Lake Trail network, but it’s also home to two golf courses — one of which is ranked among the best in New Zealand — and a lakefront with the relaxed, unhurried character of a longtime bach community.
Practical Information
| Distance from Taupō | 20km west via Kinloch Road — approximately 20–25 minutes |
| Character | Small bach (holiday home) community on the lake’s western shore |
| Facilities | General store and café at the marina; two golf courses |
| Access by boat | Boat shuttles from Taupō marina available — book in advance |
Golf at Kinloch
Kinloch’s best-known attraction is The Kinloch Club — New Zealand’s only Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, consistently ranked as one of the top courses in the country. The 18-hole championship course features undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, elevated greens and sweeping views of Lake Taupō. The clubhouse has a café and lounge, plus practice facilities and a driving range.
For a more relaxed round, the Kinloch Village Golf Club offers a 10-hole course suited to all skill levels — a friendly, community-oriented option that has welcomed golfers of every ability for decades.
Great Lake Trail
Kinloch sits at the junction of the Great Lake Trail’s W2K section (east to Whakaipo Bay) and the Kawakawa section (west toward Kawakawa Bay and Waihaha). Most Great Lake Trail riders either start or pass through Kinloch — and the village general store and café are a welcome mid-ride stop. Boat shuttles from the Kinloch marina can also connect riders to other lake access points on the trail network.
The Lakefront and Village
The foreshore at Whangamata Bay near Kinloch is a favourite spot for an ice cream or fish and chips, with calm lake water for swimming and views back toward Taupō and the volcanoes. The village has a low-key, unhurried pace — predominantly private baches (holiday homes), quiet streets and a sense of being genuinely off the tourist circuit despite being just 20 minutes from town.
Getting There
Drive west from Taupō on Kinloch Road — it’s straightforward and the road is sealed throughout. Alternatively, book a boat shuttle from the Taupō marina for a more memorable arrival by water.
Where to Learn More
Kinloch Community Association
Local information for Kinloch including walking and cycling tracks, golf, accommodation and community events.
The Kinloch Club
Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course — course information, green fees and booking for The Kinloch Club.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kinloch Club golf course open to the public?
Yes — The Kinloch Club is open to visitors. Green fees apply. The Kinloch Village Golf Club is also open and is more affordable for casual rounds.
Can you swim at Kinloch?
Yes — the lake at Whangamata Bay near Kinloch has calm, clear water suitable for swimming.
How do I get to Kinloch?
Drive west from Taupō on Kinloch Road — about 20km, 20–25 minutes. Or take a boat shuttle from the Taupō marina.
Is Kinloch a good base for the Great Lake Trail?
Yes — Kinloch is the central hub of the Great Lake Trail network, with access to both the W2K section east and the Kawakawa section west. Accommodation in Kinloch is limited — book ahead in summer.
See also: Cycling tracks in Taupō · Kinloch Loop (W2K) · Things to do in Taupō