Last updated July 2026
Richmond Heights is a residential suburb on the eastern shore of Lake Taupō in New Zealand’s North Island. It lies between the Taupō town centre and Taupō Airport, offering residents convenient access to the lake, local amenities, and the wider district. The suburb features a mix of established homes and newer developments, with a family-friendly character and proximity to Two Mile Bay. It forms part of Taupō’s eastern growth area, with additional housing planned for the mid-to-late 2020s.
Practical Information
| Location | Eastern Taupō, on the shores of Lake Taupō |
| Area | 1.37 km² |
| Population | Approximately 2,480 (June 2025 estimate) |
| Two Mile Bay | Short walk from much of the suburb |
| Taupō CBD | Approximately 4 km |
| Taupō Airport | Approximately 4 km |
| Key amenities | Kokomea Village Centre, Waipahihi School, local shops, Taupō Sailing Club |
About Richmond Heights
Richmond Heights occupies 1.37 square kilometres on the eastern foreshore of Lake Taupō. The suburb sits within the Taupō District Council area and forms one of the established residential zones east of the town centre. Its location provides easy access to the lake while remaining close to urban facilities.
The area includes a blend of older housing stock and newer subdivisions, such as Richmond Terrace. Residents benefit from local convenience shopping at Kokomea Village Centre, which includes a Countdown supermarket and other retail. Waipahihi School serves the primary-aged children in the suburb.
Taupō District Council has identified land near Richmond Heights for further residential development as part of the East Urban Lands project. This supports ongoing population growth in Taupō without relying on rates funding. The suburb remains relatively quiet compared with central areas, with flight paths from the nearby airport having limited impact on most properties.
Demographic data from the 2023 census shows a median age of 37.7 years and a diverse community, with significant European and Māori populations. The suburb supports a range of household types, consistent with its family-oriented reputation.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Two Mile Bay lies within easy walking distance and offers a lakeside reserve with picnic facilities and boat access. The Taupō Sailing Club operates from the bay, providing sailing and water-based recreation. The Great Lake Trail passes nearby, offering walking and cycling routes along the lake foreshore toward the CBD and beyond.
DeBretts Hot Springs (also known as Taupō DeBretts) sits a short drive east and features geothermal pools. The suburb’s position also allows straightforward access to the wider Taupō district attractions via the East Taupō Arterial.
What Visitors Often Say
Residents and visitors appreciate the quiet, family-friendly atmosphere and the short walk to the lake and local shops. Many note the convenience of nearby amenities combined with a suburban feel away from the busiest parts of town.
Reviewers frequently mention easy access to Two Mile Bay for recreation and the appeal of newer housing options with lake views. The proximity to the airport is seen as convenient for travel without major noise issues for most properties.
Where to Learn More
Wikipedia – Richmond Heights, Taupō: Suburb overview, demographics, and growth context from primary sources.
Taupō District Council – East Urban Lands: Official information on planned residential development near the suburb.
Stats NZ – Richmond Heights Census Data: Latest population and demographic statistics for the suburb.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Richmond Heights located in Taupō?
It is an eastern suburb on the shores of Lake Taupō, between the town centre (approximately 4 km) and Taupō Airport (approximately 4 km).
What amenities are available in Richmond Heights?
The suburb includes Kokomea Village Centre for shopping, Waipahihi School, local parks, and easy access to the Taupō Sailing Club at Two Mile Bay.
Is Richmond Heights suitable for families?
Yes, it is a family-oriented suburb with schools, playgrounds, lake access, and a quiet residential setting while remaining close to the CBD.
How far is Two Mile Bay from Richmond Heights?
Two Mile Bay is within walking distance from much of the suburb, offering lakeside reserves and recreational facilities.
Are there plans for growth in Richmond Heights?
Taupō District Council is progressing residential development on nearby East Urban Lands, supporting housing growth through the mid-to-late 2020s.
What is the population of Richmond Heights?
The suburb had an estimated population of around 2,480 as of June 2025, with an area of 1.37 km².
Is there good access to outdoor activities?
Yes, the Great Lake Trail and lakeshore paths are nearby, along with sailing and swimming opportunities at Two Mile Bay.
How close is DeBretts Hot Springs?
Taupō DeBretts Hot Springs is a short drive east of the suburb.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.