Best of the best

Whakaipo Lodge has achieved a major international milestone by being ranked 5th in New Zealand in the prestigious TripAdvisor Best of the Best Awards for 2026.

It is the third year the boutique Taupō property has secured a coveted spot in the Bed & Breakfast and Inns category, placing it in the top 1% of hospitality listings globally, for the third year in a row.

The TripAdvisor Best of the Best Award is the travel platform’s highest honour.

The accolade is determined by the quality and quantity of traveller reviews and ratings posted on the website over a 12-month period, making it a direct reflection of genuine guest satisfaction

Whakaipo Lodge owners Garth and Angie London attributed the success directly to their visitors.

"We are absolutely thrilled and humbled by this award for the third year running," Garth says.

“What makes it truly special is that it comes directly from our guests. We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who took the time to share their Whakaipo experiences online,” Angie says.

She says the wonderful reviews make the milestone possible, and inspire them to keep delivering the best Kiwi hospitality.

The lodge is located above Whakaipo Bay, just a few minutes west of Taupō township.

Guest feedback highlights its tranquil park-like grounds, bespoke architectural design, and gourmet culinary offerings featuring locally sourced ingredients

The lodge is also highly regarded for its sustainable operating practices and the personalized hosting style of the owners. Visitors frequently praise Garth and Angie's deep local knowledge, with the hosts regularly curating custom itineraries that showcase the best of the Central North Island region, from mountain biking and fly fishing to local geothermal wonders.