WELCOME TO WHAKAIPO SUNSETS
INTERNET DETAILS
Network: Whakaipo Sunsets
Password: Sunsets123
(Unlimited fibre connection)
Welcome to Taupo, and to your stay at Whakaipo Sunsets. This property is proudly managed by Paul and the team at Your Space Taupo. We wish you a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
This contains some information about the house, as well as some recommendations for activities and restaurants in the area.
If you have any problems or questions please first try to contact us via the AirBnB
App, otherwise you can contact us on 021 841 290 between 8:00am - 7:00pm.
DURING YOUR STAY
OUR HOME AND NEIGHBOURHOOD
Please be respectful, this is our home. Our neighbours have young children and dogs, the road also has a number of blind corners and steep cliffs, so please drive slowly. Please do not go down the steps behind the cottage, this is a private section.
SHOES
Please do not wear shoes in the house, thank you. Also please leave wet or muddy
sporting equipment outside.
TV
The TV is all set up for your viewing. This is hooked up to a Google Chromecast (“Livingroom TV”) and will connect to your device (smart phone, tablet or laptop through the Chrome web browser or any supported apps). Start by connecting your phone or device to the wifi network. Once connected, turn on the TV and open the app (Netflix, YouTube, etc). Look for the rectangle with 3 lines within the app.
Click - 'Sunset tv'
HEATING
There is a fabulous log fire, however, it is not permitted to use the fire during your
stay unless previously arranged. Please note that firewood is not provided so you will need to either bring some along, or pick some up from Bunnings in town.
There is a heat pump. Please do not exceed 25 and turn it off when you leave
the house.
CONVECTION MICROWAVE / COOKING
To use the convention feature: hit the convection button over and over again until
you reach your desired temperature. After - hit start. It will start to preheat. Once it
is preheated, put in your food item. Trays are located on top (glass and metal) and
racks are located in the cabinet below. DO NOT REST TRAYS ON THE BOTTOM OF THE OVEN. Turn the knob to select your cook time and press START.
To use the microwave feature, simply turn the knob and press start. Do not use
metal while using the microwave feature. To use the grill feature: simply use the
black tray, press the grill button and press start. Use the same as a conventional
oven so keep a close eye on your food.
WASHING MACHINE
There is washing powder for your use.
TOILET
Since the house is on a septic waste system, only toilet paper to be flushed down the toilet - NO TAMPONS OR SANITARY PADS ARE TO BE PLACED IN THE TOILET. There are bags provided for any female sanitary items and wet wipes.
WATER
We are on rural water and septic. NO food items are to be out down the kitchen
or bathroom sink. If you have any issues with the water, please contact us
immediately and we will get this sorted.
HOT WATER
We have a hot water cylinder so please be mindful if multiple people are trying to take showers at the same time. Keep showers less than 5 minutes to ensure
everyone is able to get hot water.
FIRE EXTINGUISHER
The property has three fire extinguishers, kitchen , laundry, and children's lounge. Additionally, there are two first aid kits - kitchen and bathroom.
Please only use in emergencies.
PETS
While your 4 legged friends are allowed at Whakaipo Sunsets, we do ask that your
dogs not be left at the property when you are not there, and they stay off the furniture. Our property is not fully fenced. Please pick up any dog droppings outside. There
will be a $20 fee for your dogs stay. If we have to clean up any dog poo, there will be
an extra $50 charge.
GENERAL
Please use coasters and place mats provided on the wood surfaces.
Books are provided for reading during your visit and are not to be removed. If any
are missing, it will be a $35.00 charge.
Towels for the lake are not provided.
WHEN PREPARING TO LEAVE
CHECKING OUT ON TIME
Unless organised and confirmed in advance, check out time is before 10.00am on your final day. Cleaning rosters are set a week in advance, therefore a later check out needs to be approved in advance, subject to availability.
LINEN
We appreciate you stripping the sheets and pillows, placing them in the bathroom along with bath and kitchen towels and cloths. Please do not strip the duvets as these are washed separately. Besides, there is absolutely no need to wash any linen as this is done professionally, thanks.
KITCHEN
Please either wash and dry all dishes, or alternatively, leave them to dry in the dish rack or dish washer. Please do not leave unused food on the bench as this may attract ants or other bugs. Please ensure the fridge / freezer remain switched on.
RUBBISH
Two bags and a recycle bin are provided free of charge. Please remove any additional rubbish from the property. Please contact us if this is an issue for any reason.
SECURITY AND SAFETY
Check that all doors are locked and windows are shut, lights and heat pump and heaters are turned off, and return the key to the lockbox.
DAMAGE OR MAINTENANCE ISSUES
Please report any accidental property damage or maintenance issues you come across prior to departure. This helps us ensure this is resolved before our next guests arrive.
LOST PROPERTY
Lastly, we think it’s worth you double-checking the house and lawns before leaving, as we often find lost property. Please note, we will only keep this for a maximum of 2 weeks.
ON THE WAY OUT THE DOOR
LIGHTS
Please ensure all lights and bathroom fan are turned off when you leave.
We value our time and properties, so please note that reluctantly we may need to
pass on any additional costs incurred. Lastly, it would be very helpful and appreciated
if you could send us a message to let us know you have left the property, thanks.
If you have any questions, or if we can help in any way please don’t hesitate to ask. Below are a few recommendations of places to visit and eat in the area. Taupō is a beautiful and popular destination, and we’d love to see you again. Safe travels as you either head homewards, or on to your next destination.
Thank you,
Paul & the team at Your Space Taupo
MEDICAL INFORMATION HOSPITAL AND EMERGENCY
Taupo Hospital, 38 Kotare Street, Hilltop, Taupo 3330.
Call 07-376 1000
Taupo has two Doctors surgeries:
Taupo Medical Centre, 117 Heuheu Street, Taupo.
Call 07-378 4080;
Taupo Health Centre, 113 Heuheu Street, Taupo.
Call 07-378 7060
Our late night pharmacy is MainStreet Pharmacy 51 Tongariro Street, Taupo. Hours are 8.30am-6.00pm weekdays; 8.30am-5.00pm weekends & public holidays.
Call 07-378 2636
Please just go straight to the hospital in an emergency.
WHAT TO DO AND WHERE TO EAT
Taupo is an amazing place with so much to offer, from swimming to skydiving, markets to mountain biking, fishing to hiking, artists and so much more. We have listed a few recommendations for you to enjoy.
TRUELY TAUPO
No trip to Taupo would be complete without a visit to Huka Falls, or a walk along the lakefront at sunset. Take a soak in one of our many hot pools, explore Craters of the Moon, and visit the Maori Rock Carvings. There are endless opportunities for hiking in the region. Climb Mount Tauhara and see Taupo from above. The Tongariro Crossing is rated as one of the best day hikes in the whole world, or walk to Huka Falls from Spa Park and have a soak in the natural hot pools, where a Geothermal stream meets the Waikato River.
ART
Something completely different is L’Arte Cafe and Art Gallery, as famous for its arty setting as for its good food. The grounds feature extensive mosaics and sculptures which are a real sight! Just a little drive to 255 Mapara Road. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
Call 07 378 2962
ARATIATIA RAPIDS
The Hydro Station Dam at Aratiatia spills water daily at 10am, 12pm and 2pm and 4pm (Summer) only and is a sight to behold.
SKYDIVING
Taupo is home to New Zealand’s cheapest and perhaps most scenic skydive. Call Taupo Tandem Skydiving on:
0800 826 336
BUNGY
Jump from 46m above the mighty Waikato River. They also have a giant swing if you can’t bring yourself to jump.
Call 0800 286 4958
JET BOATING
There are 3 different jet boating options available. Huka Falls Jet (07 374 8572) takes you to the base of the falls. Rapid Jet (07 374 8066) is more action packed and rides some huge rapids, and NZ River Jet (0800 748 375) takes you to some hidden geothermal spots where you can explore and swim.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
So many trails to choose from! Craters is the local park (which has a fee), the river trails are free, and can take you to Huka Falls and Aratiatia. The Great Lake Trails are a bit further afield and offer great riding and stunning scenery. Most of the local bike shops can rent you a bike (E-bikes available too! ) if you need one.
RAFTING
Rafting the Tongariro River is probably your best chance to see the rare and endangered Blue Duck. Call Tongariro River Rafting:
07 386 6409
SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING
Mount Ruapehu has 2 ski fields to choose from that you can access on the same pass and a club field for the more adventurous. There is even a bus service to and from Taupo, call Mount Ruapehu Taupo Snow Depot on:
07 892 4000
GOLF
There are so many options for the keen golfer: two 18 hole courses right here in town and one in Kinloch, a 9 hole at Wairakei, and a driving range to hone your skills. Try the Hole-in-One at the lakefront, or for the pros there is the Wairakei International Golf Course and the Kinloch Club designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus.
FISHING
There are endless fishing options! Head out and give it a shot yourself, go on a charter where they take care of everything, or hire a private guide and fly-fish the Queen’s favourite fishing spot. Remember that you’ll need a licence to fish in Taupo, which you can get from any of the fishing stores such as Hunting & Fishing, the Mobile or Caltex gas station, or will be included if you go out with a professional. You cannot buy Trout, so catching one is the only way you’ll get to eat one and some restaurants in town may even cook your catch for you.
KAYAKING
There are a variety of trips on offer, from a leisurely cruise down the Waikato River to paddling around to the Maori Rock Carvings. Call Canoe and Kayak on 07 378 1003 ACTIVE ARTS TAUPO 5 Redoubt Street. This is a group of local painters, potters and artists using a range of different creative media. They will enjoy welcoming you to see their wonderful work which is for sale, displayed in the gallery. Just down from the Information Centre and Taupo Museum/Art Gallery.
SHOPPING
Taupo has a whole range of shops from small boutiques, art galleries and craft stores, to big box stores.
YOGA
From absolute beginners, to experienced yogis, loveyoga caters to everyone. Take a look at their website for the latest timetable:
SOMETHING FOR THE KIDS
Dropzone: Taupo’s newest indoor family fun features a Trampoline Park, Ten Pin Bowling Alley and indoor adventure playground. Located on the outskirts of town, call 07 378 5633 to make a booking.
MOVIES
The Taupo cinema has 5 screens, 3D movies and a lounge cinema for smaller screenings. Call Starlight Cinema on 07 377 1085 or go to www.starlightcinema.co.nz for current movie times.
ROCK CLIMBING WALL
The AC Baths Events Centre houses a 12m high indoor rock wall. It caters to all levels and ages, and any gear you need can be hired.
Call 07 376 0350
MINI GOLF
No family holiday is complete without a spot of mini golf, and Taupo is no exception. Head down to the lakefront for mini golf with a view. If you get a hole-in-one on the last hole, they’ll even give you a free round!
Call 073771086
HOTPOOLS
AC Baths (07 376 0350) is family friendly with different depth pools, floating toys, hydro slides, a bombing zone and lane pools. De Bretts (07 378 8559) is more of a relaxing environment but also has slides and a fun zone for the kids to play in. You can also book massages for the adults online – win win!
PLAYGROUNDS
Most parks around Taupo have playgrounds for the kids to run amok. Tongariro Domain Playground has had a major upgrade in 2021 and features plenty of climbing webs, inground trampolines and water play. Spa Park has a flying fox, and in Acacia Bay you’ll find a Pirate ship themed playground!
EATING OUT
Great Lake Taupo has an amazing range of delicious places to eat, drink and purchase gourmet delights. You’ll find fine dining, contemporary New Zealand cuisine, kiwi-style fish ‘n chips and culinary delights from cultures worldwide.
CAFE BAKU
Taupo’s newest cafe, Baku is quickly becoming one of the top choices. Great coffee and food, set on the lakefront.
Call 07 378 6715
THE STOREHOUSE
A bit more of a funky vibe. Set in an old warehouse, and also sells a variety of other products.
Call 07 378 8820
THE VINE RESTAURANT
Great food and very interesting setting, the place itself looks like a cross between an art gallery and a wine cellar. There is a delicious selection of food, including Tapas style.
Call 07 378 5704
2 MILE BAY SAILING CENTRE
The only bar and restaurant literally sitting on the water. They sell wood fire pizzas, and have an amazing spot overhanging the lake in 2 mile bay. It’s a 5 minute drive from town and has live music on Fridays and Sundays. It’s a really popular local spot!
PLATEAU BAR AND EATERY
There are two parts to this place, but the food is just as great in both. Choose from the open fire pub vibe and catch a game of rugby, or the quieter restaurant side for some good conversation.
Call 07 377 2425
JIMMY COOPS
Burgers and Beer. You can find JC on the Lakefront in Taupo. They invite you to chill in their courtyard and take in the views.
Call 07 595 8534
PAULYS DINER
Best burgers in town - hands down! Handmade gourmet burgers by a couple of good local blokes, they also serve some other goodies too. Well worth checking out.
Call 07 3784315
FAST FOOD and TAKEAWAYS
Taupo has a wide range of different fast food and takeaway options. You will find a fish and chip shop and bakery in the local shops of most suburbs. Of course you will also find all of the usual suspects, if you are after something quick and familiar, there’s Subway, Pita Pit, Burger Fuel and more
If you loved your stay and are interested in what we can offer you in the way of Total BnB management in Taupo please leave us a Google Review and check out our website, at or give us a call on 021 841 290.
Paul and the team at Your Space Taupo