A Guide to Taupō’s Art & Culture Scene

Taupō may be best known for its lake and outdoor adventures, but it’s also a town brimming with creativity. From Māori cultural landmarks to bold street art and artisan markets, Taupō’s art and culture scene offers travellers a rich blend of tradition and innovation. Here’s your guide to the must-see spots and experiences.

Lava Glass: Glassblowing & Sculpture Garden

A short drive north of Taupō, Lava Glass is one of New Zealand’s most impressive glass art studios. Visitors can watch master glassblower Lynden Over and his team create unique works of art in the live glassblowing studio.

The onsite sculpture garden, recognised as a Garden of Significance, is home to over 600 handcrafted glass sculptures, from colourful totems to giant glass flowers. The café is also a popular stop for coffee and treats surrounded by creativity.

Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings

One of New Zealand’s most remarkable cultural landmarks, the Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Rock Carvings are only accessible by water. At 14 metres tall, the main carving depicts Ngātoroirangi, a legendary navigator and ancestor of the local iwi (tribe).

Carved by Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell and his team between 1976–1980, the rock face also features smaller guardians and ancestral figures. These works celebrate heritage, whakapapa (genealogy), and guardianship of the lake.

Visitors can view the carvings on a kayaking trip, sailing cruise, or jet-ski adventure.

Taupō Sculpture Trail

Stretching along the lakefront and town centre, the Taupō Sculpture Trail brings together an eclectic collection of public artworks. From contemporary steel pieces to whimsical designs, each sculpture tells part of the region’s story. It’s an easy, self-guided walk perfect for a sunny afternoon.

Graffiato: Taupō Street Art Festival

Every October, Taupō becomes the canvas for Graffiato: Taupō Street Art Festival, New Zealand’s largest street art event. Over 80 vibrant murals now adorn the town’s laneways, backstreets, and walls.

Take a self-guided wander through Taupō and you’ll discover bold pieces created by local and international artists, adding layers of colour and storytelling to the town’s character.

Market Central Taupō

Every Sunday, Market Central transforms into a hub for local creativity. Stalls showcase everything from carved wood and painted glass to jewellery, textiles, and gourmet food. It’s the perfect place to meet makers, pick up unique souvenirs, and soak up the community vibe.

Boom Boom Sculpture at Riverside Park

Standing proudly in Riverside Park, the Boom Boom Sculpture is a three-metre stainless steel dinosaur balanced on volcanic rock. It’s part of an ongoing sculpture park project and represents Taupō’s creative edge — fun, quirky, and impossible to miss.

Te Ātea, Tapuaeharuru, Lakefront

Te Ātea, the welcoming space on Taupō’s lakefront. Here, beautifully carved pou (carved posts) and interpretive storytelling panels acknowledge the region’s rich Māori heritage and deep spiritual connection to the land and lake.
The open space also provides panoramic views across Lake Taupō — a fitting place to reflect before exploring more of the area’s artistic treasures.

More Ways to Experience Art & Culture in Taupō

Taupō’s creative spirit doesn’t stop there. Here are more cultural highlights to explore:

  • Taupō Museum & Art Gallery – Learn about local history, Māori taonga (treasures), and rotating art exhibitions.
  • Live Music & Performances – From intimate gigs at local venues to big-name acts at the Taupō Summer Concert, the town has a lively music scene.
  • Artisan Studios – Many local artists open their studios by appointment, offering visitors a behind-the-scenes look at their process.
people buying food at city market

Where to Stay While Exploring Taupō’s Art Scene

After a day of exploring culture and creativity, retreat to a spacious, stylish holiday home with Fine Stays:

Stunning Views – Kid-friendly Airbnb

Sleeps 11 | 4 Bedrooms | Spa and Infrared Sauna

Perfect base to explore the arts and culture scene in Taupō

View Stunning Views

Absolute Lakefront – Views, Spa, Pool and Gym

Sleeps 7 I 4 Bedrooms I Panoramic Views on the Lake

Geothermal hot tub and outdoor dining to recap the day

View Absolute Lakefront

The Manor – Ideal for Families

Sleeps 11 | 5 Bedrooms | Spa & Sauna, Trampoline, Large Garden

Relax in landscaped gardens or unwind in the Sauna or Spa

View The Manor

Taupō Art & Culture FAQs

Taupō is best known for the Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings, street art from the Graffiato Festival, and artisan studios showcasing glassblowing, sculpture, and local crafts.

Visit Te Ātea on the lakefront for carved pou and storytelling, or explore the Mine Bay Rock Carvings by water. The Taupō Museum also houses local taonga (treasures).

Yes, Graffiato: Taupō Street Art Festival runs each October, bringing together local and international street artists to transform the town’s walls into an open-air gallery.

Absolutely. Lava Glass offers the rare chance to watch live glassblowing, browse a sculpture garden of over 600 glass artworks, and enjoy coffee surrounded by creativity.

Ready to explore Taupō’s creative side? Make your base at a Fine Stays property and experience the perfect mix of art, culture, and comfort.