Waipahihi is a residential suburb in Taupō, situated south of the town centre on the western shore of Lake Taupō. The suburb is notable for the Waipahihi Botanical Reserve — a 35-hectare garden and reserve with a network of walking tracks, Lake Taupō views, and collections of rhododendrons, camellias, and native New Zealand plants. Waipahihi also has some of the oldest housing stock in Taupō, with homes dating back to the early 1900s, and is positioned directly opposite the lake shore with lake views from elevated parts of the suburb.
Location and Character
| Location | South of Taupō CBD, on the western shore of Lake Taupō |
| Lake views | Yes — elevated parts of the suburb overlook Lake Taupō |
| Key feature | Waipahihi Botanical Reserve (35 ha, free, daily until dusk) |
| Housing character | Mixed — oldest housing from early 1900s, mix of historic and contemporary homes |
| Suburb rank | 10th largest in Taupō by residential housing stock |
Waipahihi Botanical Reserve
The Waipahihi Botanical Reserve is the defining feature of the suburb — a 35-hectare garden and reserve on a hilltop above the lake, managed by the Waipahihi Botanical Society. The reserve is open daily until dusk and entry is free (donations accepted). Walking tracks include the Lakeview Loop Track (2.5 km, 45 minutes) with Lake Taupō views, the Rimu Loop Track (1 km, 20 minutes) through native bush, and the Kowhai Track (1.5 km, 30 minutes) through flowering shrubs and trees. The reserve contains over 2,000 rhododendrons, camellias, and azaleas strategically planted through developing native forest, with the best flowering display typically in September and October.
The gardens are accessed from Shepherd Road, Taupō. Dogs are welcome on leads and the reserve is popular with local residents as a dog walking destination.
The Suburb
Waipahihi’s character is a mix of the historic and the established — the suburb contains some of the oldest residential housing in Taupō (constructed from the early 1900s), alongside more recent builds. Lake Terrace, the lakefront road, runs through the area and connects Waipahihi to the wider southern foreshore. The proximity to both the botanical reserve and the lake makes Waipahihi attractive for residents who value access to green space and lake views within easy reach of the town centre.
Where to Learn More
Waipahihi Botanical Gardens – Official Site — walking track maps, garden information, and dog walking details for the botanical reserve.
Love Taupō – Waipahihi Botanical Reserve — visitor overview of the reserve and walking tracks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Waipahihi in Taupō?
South of the Taupō CBD, on the western shore of Lake Taupō. Shepherd Road leads up to the Waipahihi Botanical Reserve, and Lake Terrace runs along the lake edge.
What is the Waipahihi Botanical Reserve?
A 35-hectare free garden and reserve on a hilltop in Waipahihi with lake views, multiple walking tracks (20–45 min), and collections of rhododendrons, camellias, native plants, and kauri. Open daily until dusk.
Is the Waipahihi Botanical Reserve free?
Yes — free entry for casual visitors, with a donation box available. Dogs are welcome on leads.
What are the walking tracks at Waipahihi Botanical Reserve?
The Lakeview Loop Track (2.5 km, 45 min), the Rimu Loop Track (1 km, 20 min), and the Kowhai Track (1.5 km, 30 min).
The Waipahihi Botanical Reserve is one of the lesser-known green spaces in the Taupō area. The Taupō walking tracks hub covers walks throughout the district.