Did you catch TVNZ Breakfast last Friday morning? Matty McLean, Breakfast’s weatherman, was at Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort with the Breakfast Backyard Break, a Tourism New Zealand initiative. Along with Hayley Sproull, the pair have been touring our “Backyard”; showing off the wonderful paradise that is New Zealand.
While in the Taupo region, Matty had a fantastic couple of days, getting a taste of some unique Taupo experiences and enjoying our Central North Island hospitality.
From the mountains to the lake
On Thursday Matty took to the snow-covered mountains on the other side of Lake Taupo; the Whakapapa ski fields located in the Mount Ruapehu region. Although the snow does feel like home to him, this was Matty’s first time experiencing the North Island ski fields.
“Honestly,” said Matty, “I had the best day!”
Matty spent the afternoon in the great outdoors with Simon Jolly of Chris Jolly Outdoors. From a boat on the beautiful Lake Taupo, it was Matty’s job to catch dinner. With a few tricks up Simon’s sleeve, Matty was able to secure a gorgeous Rainbow Trout and then they headed off by boat to see one of Lake Taupo’s biggest hidden secrets; the Maori carvings.
“There’s plenty of stuff you can do in the winter time.” said Simon. “You can come off the mountain, you can do some fishing, you can go jet boating, you can bungy jump or sky dive. Do whatever you want to do and then soak in a hot pool. We’ve got the best of the best out here”.
While we have this beautiful New Zealand all to ourselves, use this time to get out there and experience the best of the best.
Relaxation and fun at Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort
Friday morning at Taupo DeBretts began with some poolside pampering - a Manuka Mud Facial applied by Gemma, from our very own Day Spa.
After racing down our renowned Dragon hydroslide, Matty spent some time in the pool chatting with long-time staff member, Tobi Taite.
“It’s been a tough year for a lot of people.” said Tobi, “People come here to just relax.”
Matty agreed that Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort is indeed the perfect place to come and unwind.
While soaking in the hot mineral pools, Matty chatted with the Lions family from Gisborne. Jason and Jess, with children Cooper, Oscar and McKenzie, were on a working holiday in Taupo; staying at Taupo DeBretts and enjoying a hot soak to start their day. Cooper said that he hadn’t tried the hydroslides yet but that he enjoyed the swimming and the big bouncing pillow.
“This place has been awesome for us,” said Jason, “the kids have got heaps to do.”
Another visitor, Hayden and his children were warming up in the pools, before heading off to the snow. Shay, the eldest son, was super excited to try skiing for the very first time. With just under a two hour drive to Mount Ruapehu and the Whakapapa ski village, Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort is the ideal place to stay if you are looking for a ski holiday.
A big thank you from Taupo DeBretts to the Breakfast team: Sam, Olivia and Matty McLean; and to Kylie, the Tourism NZ representative. We enjoyed the day; you were awesome to work with.
Thank you to our dedicated staff members who contributed to the day. We could not have done it without your help.
The show can be viewed on TVNZ on Demand, Breakfast, 31st of July.
At Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort, we offer accommodation to suit every budget. The healing waters of our natural mineral hot pools are the best medicine during the chilly winter months.
BOOK ONLINE or call us on 07 378 8559
We look forward to seeing you soon.