Last updated October 2026
Rainbow Point is a residential suburb on the eastern shore of Lake Taupō, approximately 7 minutes by road from Taupō Central. Properties along Rainbow Drive sit elevated above the lake and offer panoramic views across the water toward Acacia Bay and the western shoreline.
The suburb provides direct lake access and lies adjacent to the Lions Walk lakeside path, now part of the Great Lake Pathway. It is a quiet, premium residential area popular with those seeking lakeside living close to Taupō amenities.
Official Suburb Facts
- Population (2023 Census)
- About 340, up 11% since 2018
- Land area
- 0.56 km² (56 ha)
- Location
- 4.0 km south of central Taupō
- Council
- Taupo District Council
- Neighbouring suburbs
- Wharewaka, Richmond Heights, Two Mile Bay
- Ward or local board
- Taupō General Ward (Taupō District Council)
- Getting there
- Rainbow Drive, about 7 minutes by car from Taupō Central, plus the Lions Walk shared path into town
- Main shopping
- Kokomea Village Centre on Lake Terrace, close by
- Nearby landmarks
- Great Lake Pathway (Lions Walk), Two Mile Bay boat ramp
Who Lives in Rainbow Point
About 340 residents in 150 households. From the 2023 Census, with the New Zealand figure alongside for comparison.
Schools in Rainbow Point
There is no school inside the Rainbow Point boundary, but these schools have enrolment zones that cover some or all of it.
Zoned for Rainbow Point
Source: Ministry of Education school directory and enrolment zones (CC BY 4.0 and CC BY 3.0 NZ), October 2026. Zones change, so confirm with the school before relying on one.
Bin Day in Rainbow Point
by 7.30am on collection day, close to the kerb and clear of the footpath
Source: Taupō District Council collection areas. Streets near a suburb edge can differ, so check the council lookup if unsure.
Buses from Rainbow Point
6 bus stops inside the suburb.
Source: Waikato Regional Council Busit timetable data. Typical weekday daytime frequency.
Handy Facilities
Source: Taupō District Council public toilets; NZTA EVRoam charging sites.
Weather and Rent at a Glance
Sources: NIWA climate averages 1991-2020 (via Figure.NZ); Tenancy Services rental bond data (MBIE), CC BY 4.0, September 2025 to August 2026. City-wide figures.
About Rainbow Point
Rainbow Point occupies a desirable position on the eastern shore of Lake Taupō.
Rainbow Point occupies a desirable position on the eastern shore of Lake Taupō. Homes along Rainbow Drive are set on the reserve above the lake, capturing wide views across the water to Acacia Bay, the western shoreline, and toward the Taupō CBD to the north.
The suburb offers convenient access to the lake for swimming and boating. Nearby Two Mile Bay provides a public boat ramp, while the immediate lake frontage supports swimming and recreation.
Daily conveniences are close by at the Kokomea Village Centre on Lake Terrace, which includes a supermarket, retail outlets, and cafés. The area remains primarily residential and quiet while staying within easy reach of central Taupō.
Great Lake Pathway (Lions Walk)
The Great Lake Pathway, also known as Lions Walk, runs along the eastern shore of Lake Taupō directly beside Rainbow Point.
The Great Lake Pathway, also known as Lions Walk, runs along the eastern shore of Lake Taupō directly beside Rainbow Point. This shared path is suitable for walking and cycling, offering easy, flat access into Taupō town centre along the lake edge. It is graded easy and popular with families for its scenic views across the lake.
Near Rainbow Point
Just outside Rainbow Point, within 5 km of its centre, nearest first.
Places
Show 2 more places
Businesses
Where to Learn More
Love Taupō: Official visitor information for Taupō district attractions, walks, and activities.
OneRoof – Rainbow Point Suburb Profile: Current residential market data and property listings for the area.
Love Taupō – Great Lake Pathway: Details on the Lions Walk trail including distance, time, and conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Rainbow Point located in Taupō?
On the eastern shore of Lake Taupō, about 7 minutes by car from Taupō Central. Rainbow Drive is the main street running above the lake reserve.
What makes Rainbow Point a desirable address?
Elevated panoramic lake views, direct lake access, proximity to the Great Lake Pathway, and a quiet residential setting with easy access to shops and the CBD.
Is there lake access from Rainbow Point?
Yes, the suburb has direct frontage to Lake Taupō with opportunities for swimming. A public boat ramp is available nearby at Two Mile Bay.
What is the Great Lake Pathway (Lions Walk)?
A shared walking and cycling path along the eastern shore of Lake Taupō that connects Rainbow Point to the Taupō foreshore and town centre. It is an easy, flat trail popular with families.
Are there shops near Rainbow Point?
Yes, the Kokomea Village Centre is a short distance away and includes a supermarket, retail stores, and cafés.
Is Rainbow Point suitable for visitors?
It is primarily a residential suburb, but holiday homes are available. It offers a peaceful base with excellent lake views and access to the pathway for recreation.
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Explore Taupō only lists suburbs officially recognised by Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), and Rainbow Point is one of them. Suburb boundary: LINZ, CC BY 4.0.