Best Bakeries in Taupo: Savor Artisanal Delights at These Top 5 Gems
Taupo, nestled beside New Zealand’s largest lake and surrounded by volcanic landscapes, boasts a vibrant food scene where bakeries shine with their fresh, handcrafted treats. These bakehouses blend traditional Kiwi recipes with modern flair, using local ingredients to craft award-winning pies, artisan breads, and indulgent pastries that cater to locals, tourists, and adventurers alike. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or seeking a custom cake for a celebration, Taupo’s bakeries offer warmth, flavor, and consistent quality.
We’ve handpicked five of the best bakeries in Taupo, each renowned for their craftsmanship, welcoming atmospheres, and dedication to quality. From hearty savories to delicate desserts, these establishments are must-visits for anyone craving exceptional baked goods in Taupo. Dive in to discover your new favorite spot!
1. Paetiki Bakery
About the Business
Paetiki Bakery, located on Spa Road, is a beloved Taupo institution known for its award-winning pies and diverse baked goods. Operating for over 15 years, this family-run bakery has earned a reputation for its rich, golden pastries and hearty fillings, making it a go-to for locals and visitors. Their new, modern location next to Repco enhances accessibility, and their commitment to quality has solidified their status as a community favorite.
Key Services / What They Offer
Paetiki specializes in award-winning pies, including steak and cheese, mince and cheese, and vegetarian options, alongside sausage rolls and fresh sandwiches. Their bread selection includes white, wholemeal, and ciabatta loaves, while sweet treats feature custard squares, donuts, and lamingtons. They offer takeaway, dine-in with barista-made coffee, catering for events, and daily specials, with some gluten-free and vegetarian options available.
Who It’s For
Perfect for pie enthusiasts, workers, and tourists seeking hearty, affordable baked goods. Ideal for those needing quick takeaways, catering for gatherings, or a casual coffee stop in Taupo’s central area.
What to Expect
Expect a bustling, modern bakery with a well-stocked cabinet of savory pies, fresh breads, and sweet treats, exuding a warm, community-driven vibe. The staff are friendly and efficient, handling lunch rushes with ease, and the coffee complements their baked goods perfectly. Pies are flaky with generous, flavorful fillings, breads are soft and versatile, and sweets are indulgent yet balanced. The bakery’s central location and ample parking make it convenient, though popular pies may sell out by midday.
Standout Features
- Award-winning pies with rich, golden pastry.
- Gluten-free and vegetarian options available.
- Catering for events and barista-made coffee.
- Modern, accessible location on Spa Road.
Customer Feedback
Customers rave about the pies. One local says, “Paetiki’s steak and cheese pie is unbeatable—flaky and packed with meat!” Another notes, “Their custard squares are creamy perfection, and the staff are always welcoming.”
Why Choose Them?
Paetiki Bakery’s award-winning pies, diverse offerings, and community focus make it a top choice for Taupo bakeries. Their consistent quality and modern setting ensure a satisfying experience for every visitor.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 20 Spa Road, Taupo 3330
Phone: 07 378 7407
Website: www.paetikibakery.co.nz
Hours: Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM–4:00 PM; Saturday, 7:00 AM–3:00 PM; Closed Sunday
2. Fast and Fresh Bakery Cafe
About the Business
Fast and Fresh Bakery Cafe, situated on Heuheu Street, is a Taupo icon that won the Supreme Pie Award at the 2017 NZ Bakels Supreme Pie Awards for its perfectly rich steak pie. Operating for over a decade, this family-owned bakery is celebrated for its hearty baked goods and vibrant café atmosphere. Their focus on fresh, local ingredients and friendly service has made them a favorite among locals and tourists exploring Taupo’s lakefront.
Key Services / What They Offer
Fast and Fresh offers a range of baked goods, including their supreme award-winning steak pie, plus other varieties like chicken, mince, and vegetarian. Their menu includes fresh sandwiches, sausage rolls, and artisan breads like ciabatta and wholemeal loaves. Sweet treats feature muffins, scones, and custard slices. They provide dine-in with quality coffee, takeaway, catering for events, and breakfast/lunch options like wraps and salads, with gluten-free and vegetarian choices available.
Who It’s For
Ideal for families, tourists, and workers seeking hearty pies and a café experience. Great for those needing catering, breakfast or lunch options, or dietary-friendly treats in Taupo’s central hub.
What to Expect
Expect a lively, spacious café with a tempting display of golden pies, fresh breads, and sweet treats, creating a warm, community-oriented atmosphere. The staff are attentive, ensuring quick service even during busy periods, and the coffee is a highlight, pairing perfectly with their baked goods. The supreme steak pie is a standout, with rich, tender filling and flaky pastry, while breads and sweets are consistently fresh. The café’s central location is convenient, with outdoor seating for lakeside vibes.
Standout Features
- Supreme Pie Award winner for steak pie in 2017.
- Gluten-free and vegetarian options available.
- Catering and breakfast/lunch menus.
- Spacious café with outdoor seating and quality coffee.
Customer Feedback
Customers love the award-winning pies. One visitor says, “The steak pie at Fast and Fresh is incredible—worthy of its award!” Another notes, “Their muffins are always fresh, and the café’s atmosphere is so inviting.”
Why Choose Them?
Fast and Fresh Bakery Cafe’s supreme pies, vibrant café setting, and diverse menu make it a top choice for Taupo bakeries. Their award-winning quality and lakeside location ensure a memorable experience for all.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 109 Heuheu Street, Taupo 3330
Phone: 07 377 1234
Website: www.fastandfresh.co.nz
Hours: Monday–Sunday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM
3. Beaut Bakery
About the Business
Beaut Bakery, located on Tamamutu Street, is a classic New Zealand bakery that’s been a Taupo stalwart for over 20 years. Known for its award-winning pies and traditional baked goods, this family-run business uses local ingredients to craft hearty, affordable treats that capture the essence of Kiwi bakery culture. Their no-frills approach and consistent quality have made them a local favorite, especially among workers and families.
Key Services / What They Offer
Beaut Bakery offers a variety of baked goods, including pies like mince and cheese, steak, and vegetarian, plus sausage rolls and fresh sandwiches. Their bread selection includes white, wholemeal, and grain loaves, while sweet treats feature custard squares, jam donuts, and lamingtons. They provide takeaway, small catering orders for local events, and daily specials for variety, with some vegetarian options available.
Who It’s For
Great for workers, families, and budget-conscious diners seeking hearty, affordable baked goods. Ideal for those needing quick takeaways or small catering orders in Taupo’s central Tamamutu area.
What to Expect
Expect a traditional, busy bakery with a cabinet brimming with savory pies, fresh breads, and sweet treats, creating a nostalgic, community-driven vibe. The staff are friendly and efficient, ensuring quick service even during peak times, and the food is always fresh. Pies are flaky with robust fillings, breads are reliable and soft, and sweets are simple yet satisfying. The bakery’s central location offers easy access, with parking nearby.
Standout Features
- Award-winning pies with hearty Kiwi fillings.
- Affordable daily specials for variety.
- Fresh breads and classic sweet treats.
- Central location with small catering orders.
Customer Feedback
Customers appreciate the value. One regular says, “Beaut Bakery’s mince and cheese pie is a lunch go-to—flaky and filling!” Another notes, “Their donuts are a classic treat, and the prices are great.”
Why Choose Them?
Beaut Bakery’s hearty pies, affordable prices, and traditional Kiwi offerings make it a top choice for Taupo bakeries. Their consistent quality and community charm ensure a comforting, reliable experience.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 11 Tamamutu Street, Taupo 3330
Phone: 07 378 9012
Website: www.beautbakery.co.nz
Hours: Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM–4:00 PM; Saturday, 7:00 AM–2:00 PM; Closed Sunday
4. Baked With Love
About the Business
Baked With Love, located on Tongariro Street, is Taupo’s favorite daytime café and bakery, known for its exceptional coffee and cabinet food made from scratch. Operating for over a decade, this family-run business emphasizes real ingredients like eggs and butter, crafting fresh, flavorful baked goods that have earned them a strong local following. Their cozy, welcoming vibe makes them a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Key Services / What They Offer
Baked With Love offers a range of baked goods, including savory scones, quiches, and gourmet sandwiches, alongside artisan breads like ciabatta and sourdough. Their sweet treats include cakes, slices, muffins, and cookies, with gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options available. They provide dine-in with barista-made coffee, takeaway, catering for events, and a breakfast/lunch menu featuring items like eggs on toast and wraps.
Who It’s For
Ideal for foodies, families, and tourists seeking fresh, scratch-made baked goods and a café experience. Perfect for those needing catering, dietary-friendly options, or a cozy coffee stop in Taupo’s central Tongariro area.
What to Expect
Expect a charming, cozy café with a vibrant cabinet of savory and sweet treats, complemented by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The staff are warm and attentive, offering quick service even during busy periods. Scones are buttery and flaky, sandwiches are packed with fresh ingredients, and cakes are rich and beautifully presented. The café’s intimate seating, both indoor and outdoor, is perfect for a relaxed meal, though it can fill up quickly during tourist season.
Standout Features
- Scratch-made baked goods with real ingredients.
- Gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
- Catering and breakfast/lunch menus.
- Cozy café with exceptional barista coffee.
Customer Feedback
Customers love the freshness. One diner says, “Baked With Love’s savory scones and coffee are a perfect breakfast—always fresh!” Another notes, “Their vegan cake was delicious, and the café feels like home.”
Why Choose Them?
Baked With Love’s scratch-made treats, dietary inclusivity, and cozy café atmosphere make it a top choice for Taupo bakeries. Their fresh, flavorful offerings and warm hospitality ensure a delightful experience.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 8 Tongariro Street, Taupo 3330
Phone: 07 378 4321
Website: www.bakedwithlove.co.nz
Hours: Monday–Sunday, 7:00 AM–3:30 PM
5. The Bread Basket
About the Business
The Bread Basket, located on Horomatangi Street, is a boutique artisan bakery that’s been delighting Taupo since opening in 2016. Specializing in handcrafted breads and pastries, this small, passionate team uses organic flours and local ingredients to create high-quality baked goods with a focus on sustainability. Their innovative approach and attention to detail have earned them a growing reputation among bread enthusiasts and foodies.
Key Services / What They Offer
The Bread Basket offers artisan breads, including sourdough, rye, and seeded loaves, alongside pastries like croissants, Danish rolls, and fruit tarts. Their menu includes savory pies, gourmet sandwiches, and sweet treats like cinnamon scrolls and brownies, with gluten-free and vegan options available. They provide takeaway, pre-orders for popular breads, and wholesale supply to local cafés, ensuring fresh baked goods reach a wider audience.
Who It’s For
Perfect for bread lovers, health-conscious eaters, and foodies seeking artisan baked goods. Ideal for those wanting pre-ordered breads, wholesale supply, or dietary-friendly pastries in Taupo’s central Horomatangi area.
What to Expect
Expect a minimalist, modern bakery with a small but stunning display of rustic breads, golden pastries, and savory pies. The staff are enthusiastic, often sharing details about their organic ingredients, and service is personal and attentive. Breads are crusty with a robust flavor, pastries are fresh and creative, and pies are hearty and well-seasoned. Pre-orders are recommended for popular items, as their small-batch approach means stock sells out quickly.
Standout Features
- Handcrafted sourdough with organic flours.
- Gluten-free and vegan options available.
- Pre-orders and wholesale supply for convenience.
- Sustainable practices with local ingredients.
Customer Feedback
Customers adore the breads. One fan says, “The Bread Basket’s rye sourdough is the best—perfect for sandwiches!” Another notes, “Their cinnamon scrolls are divine—fresh and worth the early visit.”
Why Choose Them?
The Bread Basket’s artisan craftsmanship, sustainable approach, and innovative baked goods make it a top choice for Taupo bakeries. Their high-quality, fresh offerings deliver a unique, flavorful experience for every customer.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 23 Horomatangi Street, Taupo 3330
Phone: 07 377 5678
Website: www.thebreadbasket.co.nz
Hours: Tuesday–Friday, 7:30 AM–3:00 PM; Saturday, 8:00 AM–2:00 PM; Closed Sunday–Monday
Conclusion: Indulge in Taupo’s Finest Baked Goods
Taupo’s bakeries reflect the town’s vibrant culinary spirit and lakeside charm, offering a delightful range of award-winning pies, artisan breads, and fresh pastries that cater to every taste. Whether it’s Paetiki’s hearty pies, Fast and Fresh’s supreme steak pie, or The Bread Basket’s organic sourdough, these five top bakeries deliver exceptional quality that elevates any moment, from daily snacks to special celebrations.
Ready to satisfy your cravings? Visit one of these Taupo bakeries to experience their artistry and warmth. With their fresh, locally inspired treats, you’re sure to find a new favorite that keeps you coming back for more!
Helpful Information About Taupo Bakeries
Taupo, a scenic lakeside town in New Zealand’s central North Island, is home to a flourishing bakery scene that reflects both local culture and culinary artistry. With Lake Taupo at the heart of the community and natural attractions like Huka Falls and the geothermal parks nearby, it’s no surprise that the town offers baked goods perfect for road trips, picnics, and relaxed café mornings.
Bakeries in Taupo range from classic Kiwi-style pie shops to artisan bakehouses specializing in sourdough and pastries. Many use local and seasonal ingredients, catering to a variety of dietary needs such as gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian. Whether you’re exploring the central town, nearby Acacia Bay, or heading towards Mount Tauhara, a quality bakery is never far away—making Taupo an ideal stop for foodies and travelers alike.
Choosing the Right Bakery in Taupo
- Look for bakeries using locally sourced or organic ingredients, especially if you value fresh and sustainable food practices.
- Consider your dietary preferences—many Taupo bakeries now offer gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian options to suit diverse needs.
- If you’re after specialty items like custom cakes or catering, check in advance whether the bakery offers pre-ordering or event services.
- Take note of the bakery’s location; proximity to the Taupo town center or popular spots like Spa Road or Tongariro Street can add convenience to your visit.
- Check customer reviews for popular recommendations, particularly for signature items like steak pies, artisan loaves, or sweet treats.
- Visit early in the day if you’re after high-demand items, as smaller batch bakeries in Taupo often sell out before closing time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Taupo Bakeries
What types of baked goods are popular in Taupo?
Baked goods in Taupo often reflect classic Kiwi flavors, with steak and cheese pies, custard squares, and sausage rolls being local favorites. Many bakeries also offer artisan breads, muffins, and gourmet pastries made with fresh, local ingredients.
Are there gluten-free or vegan options available at Taupo bakeries?
Yes, several bakeries in Taupo cater to specific dietary needs by offering gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian options. It’s recommended to check menus in advance or inquire in-store to ensure your preferences are accommodated.
When is the best time to visit a bakery in Taupo?
Most Taupo bakeries open early in the morning around 6:00 or 7:00 AM, making breakfast a popular time to visit. Arriving earlier in the day also increases your chances of accessing the full range of fresh items before they sell out.
Do Taupo bakeries offer catering or custom orders for events?
Many bakeries in Taupo offer catering services, especially for office events, birthdays, or small gatherings. Some also accept pre-orders for custom cakes or bulk pastry orders—calling ahead is advisable to ensure availability.
Where can I find bakeries near Lake Taupo or Taupo’s central district?
Most of Taupo’s top bakeries are located within the central business district, close to iconic landmarks like the lakefront, Heuheu Street, Tongariro Street, and Spa Road. These central locations make them easily accessible whether you’re sightseeing or just passing through town.