Can I leave my car here while I hike the Tongariro Crossing?

You are most welcome to store your car with us while you are in the Park. It is recommended that you do not leave your vehicle at any of the track heads that service Tongariro National Park for security reasons. There is a daily shuttle bus that picks up at Rainbow Lodge weather permitting between 6 - 7am depending on the season and returning late afternoon. It about a 75 minute drive to the start of the track.

Can older folk stay at a Backpackers Hostel?

Of course ! It is just a question of attitude. The common factors that bring travellers together from widely different backgrounds are the economies of self reliance and the rewards of co-operation.
Translated, this means you get to park your own car, carry your own bags and wash your own dishes!

Can I book an activity when I arrive?

We encourage you to do this just this. We spend a lot of time trying to organise refunds for pre-booked, weather dependent activities that have been made outside of Taupo that have had to be cancelled. Most can be booked on the day or at the time you make a reservation with us if you are on a tight schedule. Either way, we can deal with refunds on the spot if the weather turns on you.

What's The Weather Forecast?

Sorry - our heavenly connections are not THAT good! We are working on a direct line though!

Can I leave my Luggage here?

We provide secure day storage facilities at no cost for guests so you can enjoy Taupo unencumbered by your pack.

Pets.

You are welcome to bring your dog or cat as long as it overnights in your vehicle or our kennel. We have a shady, dog-proof yard available for daytime use. Sorry - no space for horses, elephants or anything of that general size. If you are not sure - give us a call.

Is the Robt Harris coffee really free?

Yep! You'll find it at the Reception and you can drink as much as you can hold! Bring a cup from the kitchen, wash it when you've finished and we'll get along just fine! We can't guarantee what sort of sleep you'll have if you're a caffeine addict!

Can I deposit mail / have mail sent from the Lodge?

We can arrange to send or hold your post but sorry, we do not sell stamps.

What are your favourite café's & bars?

Replete Café on Heu Heu for breakfast / brunch & lunch - serves Millars Coffee
Deli 21 on Horomatangi for food to go
Pimmentos on Tamamutu St & Villenos on Horomatangi for that special occasion
Jolly Good Fellows on the Lakefront for BIG SCREEN TV sport coverage, fine Pub food & great sunsets across Lake Taupo
The Sugar Club on Tuwharetoa St for live music
The Holy Cow on Tongariro St for dancing till late…
& Finns Irish Bar for a Guinness

Can I store my valuables somewhere?

There is a safe at Reception for your valuables - available during normal office hours.