Taupo Population and Facts
Facts about Taupo & our Population
Taupō is a lakeside city in the central North Island, best known internationally as a tourism and fishing destination. The town had a population of 25,374 at the 2023 New Zealand Census — the largest urban centre in the Taupō District, which had a total district population of 40,296.
Key Facts
| Taupō town population (2023 census) | 25,374 |
|---|---|
| Taupō District population (2023 census) | 40,296 |
| Population growth 2018–2023 | +8.3% (district); +7.4% (town) |
| Median age (district) | 42.3 years (national median: 38.1 years) |
| Dwellings (district) | 15,339 |
| Region | Waikato Region |
| District council | Taupō District Council |
About Taupō’s Population
Taupō town is the main urban centre and service hub for the wider Taupō District, which extends from the central plateau south through Tūrangi to the Rangitīkei River, and west to include the remote township of Mangakino on the shores of Lake Maraetai. The district covers a large geographical area but the majority of the population is concentrated in and around Taupō town itself.
The district’s median age of 42.3 years is notably higher than the national median of 38.1, reflecting the appeal of the area to retirees and semi-retirees drawn by the lake, climate and lifestyle. Tourism, hospitality and related services form a significant part of the local economy alongside agriculture and horticulture in the surrounding district.
Population Growth
The Taupō District grew by 8.3% between the 2018 and 2023 censuses — faster than many provincial centres — and by 22.5% since 2013. Taupō town itself grew by 7.4% over the same 2018–2023 period. The district’s growth has been driven by internal migration from larger New Zealand cities, retirement relocations, and continued tourism infrastructure investment. Taupō District Council publishes updated growth projections and economic data on its website.
Where to Learn More
Stats NZ — Taupō District Summary — official 2023 census data for the Taupō District, including population counts, age structure, ethnicity, dwellings and income.
Taupō District Council — Growth Projections — council’s economic data page with population projections, census results and growth forecasts for the district.
Wikipedia — Taupō District — background on the district’s geography, history, economy and demographics.
FAQ
What is the population of Taupō?
Taupō town had a population of 25,374 at the 2023 New Zealand Census. The wider Taupō District had a total population of 40,296.
Is the Taupō District growing?
Yes — the district grew by 8.3% between 2018 and 2023, and by 22.5% since 2013. Growth is driven partly by internal migration and retirement relocations.
What is the median age in the Taupō District?
42.3 years — notably higher than the New Zealand national median of 38.1 years.
What region is Taupō in?
Taupō is in the Waikato Region. The Taupō District is administered by Taupō District Council.
What other towns are in the Taupō District?
The district includes Tūrangi, Mangakino, Whakamaru and several smaller communities, in addition to Taupō town itself.
Taupō is the main city in the Taupō District. For things to see and do around the lake and district, see the Things to Do in Taupō guide.