Last updated October 2026
Tauhara is a residential suburb on the eastern side of Taupō. It takes its name from nearby Mount Tauhara, a prominent 1,088-metre dormant lava dome volcano located about 6 kilometres east of the town centre.
The suburb includes Tauhara College, Tauhara Primary School, Mountview School, and the Tauhara course of Taupō Golf Club. It offers a more spacious layout than central suburbs and serves as an established family area with easy access to outdoor recreation.
Official Suburb Facts
- Population (2023 Census)
- About 2,080, about the same as 2018
- Land area
- 10.82 km²
- Location
- 3.8 km east of central Taupō
- Council
- Taupo District Council
- Neighbouring suburbs
- Rotokawa, Maunganamu, Taupō, Hilltop, Rangatira Park, Tauhara Forest, Wairakei
- Ward or local board
- Taupō General Ward (Taupō District Council)
- Getting there
- State Highway 5, with Mountain Road leading to the Mount Tauhara track
- Nearby landmarks
- Mount Tauhara, Tauhara course of Taupō Golf Club
Who Lives in Tauhara
About 2,080 residents in 690 households. From the 2023 Census, with the New Zealand figure alongside for comparison.
Schools in Tauhara
Two schools sit inside the Tauhara boundary. All have an enrolment zone, so check an address is in zone before you buy or rent.
Also zoned for Tauhara
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 Tauhara
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.
Safety and Hazards
Higher than the Taupō average for the number of people who live here. Busy beaches, town centres and nightlife draw lots of visitors, which lifts the figure. Another 48 reports were at shops and businesses.
Sources: NZ Police victimisation data, CC BY 4.0, September 2025 to August 2026 (crimes inside homes are only published for burglary).
Buses from Tauhara
9 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.
In Tauhara
Places and businesses inside the official Tauhara boundary.
Places
Show 3 more places
About Tauhara
Tauhara lies on the eastern side of Taupō and forms one of the district’s larger suburbs by area.
Tauhara lies on the eastern side of Taupō and forms one of the district’s larger suburbs by area. Its boundaries place it close to the slopes of Mount Tauhara, which rises distinctly above the surrounding landscape and remains visible from much of the suburb.
The area includes established residential streets alongside schools and recreational facilities that support daily life for local families.
Tauhara College serves as the main secondary school for students from the eastern and southern parts of Taupō. Tauhara Primary School and Mountview School provide primary education options within the suburb.
The Tauhara course of Taupō Golf Club sits within the suburb boundaries and forms part of the town’s main golf facilities, set in a mature parkland setting with views toward the mountain.
The suburb’s larger footprint contributes to a spread-out residential character compared with areas nearer the town centre. Housing ranges from mid-20th-century homes to more recent builds, reflecting ongoing development in this established part of Taupō. Proximity to the mountain and golf course adds recreational value for residents.
Mount Tauhara Walk
The walking track to the summit of Mount Tauhara begins at the end of Mountain Road.
The walking track to the summit of Mount Tauhara begins at the end of Mountain Road. The route climbs through native bush with an elevation gain of approximately 520 metres to reach the 1,088-metre summit. On clear days the summit provides panoramic views across Lake Taupō, the volcanic plateau, and toward Ruapehu and Tongariro.
The track is steep in sections and typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours return for most walkers. It is a popular half-day outing for both locals and visitors. No facilities such as toilets are available at the trailhead or summit. Good footwear is recommended due to roots and uneven terrain in places.
Near Tauhara
Just outside Tauhara, within 5 km of its centre, nearest first.
Places
Show 2 more places
Businesses
Where to Learn More
Wikipedia – Tauhara: Overview of the suburb including geography, schools, and demographics.
Stats NZ – Tauhara place summary: Latest population estimates and demographic data for the suburb.
Wikipedia – Mount Tauhara: Geological details and track information for the mountain overlooking the suburb.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Tauhara located in Taupō?
Tauhara lies on the eastern side of Taupō town centre, extending toward Mount Tauhara approximately 6 kilometres from the CBD.
What schools are in Tauhara?
Tauhara Primary School, Mountview School, and Tauhara College (secondary) are located in the suburb.
Where does the Mount Tauhara track start?
The track begins at the end of Mountain Road, a short drive from central Taupō off SH5.
How long does the Mount Tauhara walk take?
The return trip typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours, with about 520 metres of elevation gain.
Is there a golf course in Tauhara?
Yes, the Tauhara course forms part of Taupō Golf Club and is located within the suburb.
What views are available from Mount Tauhara summit?
Panoramic views over Lake Taupō, the volcanic plateau, and mountains including Ruapehu and Tongariro on clear days.
Is Tauhara suitable for families?
The suburb offers established housing, local schools, a golf course, and proximity to walking tracks, contributing to its family-oriented character.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Explore Taupō only lists suburbs officially recognised by Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), and Tauhara is one of them. Suburb boundary: LINZ, CC BY 4.0.