Five Mile Bay is a lakefront settlement on the eastern shore of Lake Taupō, approximately 5 kilometres south of Taupō town. The area is characterised by holiday homes and baches with direct lake access, and takes its name from its location 5 miles (now approximately 8 km) from the original Taupō township. It is close to the mouth of the Waitahanui River — one of New Zealand’s premier trout fishing streams — and is a popular base for fishing and watersport visitors.
Location and Character
| Location | Eastern shore of Lake Taupō, approximately 5 km south of Taupō CBD via Lake Terrace |
| Access road | Mahuta Road and Lake Terrace (SH1 lakeside) |
| Lake access | Direct — waterfront properties with beach access along the eastern shore |
| Character | Primarily holiday homes and baches; quiet permanent community |
| Fishing | Close to the Waitahanui River mouth — one of New Zealand’s top trout fishing streams |
| Nearby | Huka Falls (approx. 10 km north), Taupō CBD (5 km) |
The Settlement
Five Mile Bay is primarily a holiday home and bach community — the eastern lakeshore south of Taupō town is lined with properties that have direct lake frontage, many of which are rented as holiday accommodation. The lakefront here is calm and accessible, with shallow water suitable for swimming and launching small watercraft. The settlement has a quiet, unhurried character outside the peak summer season.
The proximity to the Waitahanui River mouth makes Five Mile Bay a natural base for trout fishing. Waitahanui is one of the most productive rainbow trout fisheries in the Taupō region, with the river mouth itself a renowned spot for fly fishing — particularly during the evening rise. A Fish & Game Central South Island licence is required for all freshwater fishing in the region.
Where to Learn More
Love Taupō – Official Visitor Site — information on lake activities, fishing, and accommodation across the Taupō district.
Fish & Game Eastern Region — fishing licence information and regulations for the Taupō trout fishery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Five Mile Bay in Taupō?
On the eastern shore of Lake Taupō, approximately 5 km south of Taupō CBD via Lake Terrace. Mahuta Road is the main access road for the settlement.
What is Five Mile Bay like?
A quiet lakefront settlement of holiday homes and baches with direct lake access. Popular in summer for swimming and watersports, and year-round for trout fishing.
Is Five Mile Bay good for fishing?
Yes — it is close to the Waitahanui River mouth, one of New Zealand’s premier rainbow trout fishing locations. A Fish & Game licence is required for freshwater fishing.
How far is Five Mile Bay from Taupō?
Approximately 5 km south of Taupō CBD along Lake Terrace — around 10 minutes by road.
Five Mile Bay is close to the Waitahanui River fishing area. See the Waitahanui River Fishing guide and the Taupō walking tracks hub.