By the Explore Taupō news desk · Published Thursday 12 November 2026
Taupō's main events venue has had its first major makeover since it opened in 1992, with new sound, lighting and acoustic treatment and a more open exhibition hall.
- Cost
- $1.2 million budget
- When
- Work ran from November 2025 to October 2026
- What to do
- Book the venue at taupodc.bookable.co.nz
Taupō District Council did the design and ran the project itself, and every contractor on the job was local. The building’s footprint has not changed; the money went into the fit-out and the technical gear.
What has changed inside
- Upgraded sound and lighting, and a new audio-visual system.
- Acoustic panelling in the Hall and the Theatre.
- An internal wall removed to open up the main exhibition hall.
- A refresh of the entrance, bathrooms, Green Room, Rimu Rooms and backstage areas, plus new paint and a new kitchen floor.
The council’s facilities officer, Tonia Absolom, said in the council’s release, “We’ve already had bands comment on the upgrades to the sound and lighting.” The council says the work has extended the venue’s life, and Ms Absolom said it leaves the centre better placed to keep and attract events that benefit the whole district.
Coming up
The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, musician Ash Grunwald and the Home and Garden Show are among the events due at the centre soon; the council has not given dates in its release.
The venue has hosted acts such as Stan Walker, Six60, Sir Dave Dobbyn and the Topp Twins over the past three decades, alongside musicals, conferences, sport and community events.
Groups wanting to hold an event there can book through the council’s online booking site, taupodc.bookable.co.nz, and upcoming shows are listed on the Taupō Venues Facebook page. Full details are in the council’s announcement.
- Taupō District Council: New lease of life for Taupō's Great Lake Centre, released 4 November 2026
- Taupō District Council: Great Lake Centre upgrade (project page, undated; latest update marked October 2026), released 1 October 2026
Explore Taupō news desk: news@exploretaupo.co.nz. Spotted something wrong? Tell us and we’ll correct it.
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