Taupō foodie scene comes alive

Treats of Taupō introduces a new experience every week, including the popular Degustation Dinner. Photo supplied by Olivia Moore – That Green Olive and Destination Great Lake Taupō

Taupō is in for a delicious summer thanks to Treats of Taupō and its new Summer Sessions.

For eight weeks across January and February, locals and visitors can enjoy unmissable food, drink, and social experiences popping up throughout the region.  

The Summer Sessions kicked off on January 9 with Baking & Pottery, hosted by Didi from Quirky Pottery and promises to be a hands-on, creative evening combining pottery-making with sweet treats to start the season in style.

From there, a new experience rolls out each week, offering something fresh to discover all summer long.

Following the success of the Treats of Taupō festival in October 2025, the Summer Sessions bring the same magic to the warmer months with long sunny evenings, stunning lake views, iconic local venues, and curated events that showcase the very best of Taupō’s hospitality scene. 

Each week features a different venue, host, and experience, from luxe long lunches to pottery classes, flower picking, boat trips, live-music socials, and more.  

“The Summer Sessions are a great example of the creativity and collaboration happening across our hospitality scene,” says Love Taupō General Manager Patrick Dault.

“They give visitors another reason to extend their stay, explore different parts of the region, and experience Taupō through food, people, and place during our peak summer months.”

Treats of Taupō organiser Fleur Smith says Taupō “absolutely comes alive in summer”.

“We wanted to capture that energy and create a season-long celebration that gives locals and visitors something to look forward to every week. 

“It’s all about community, incredible food, and supporting the hospitality stars who make Taupō special.” 

 View the full Summer Sessions calendar and purchase tickets via treatsoftaupo.co.nz