How to Plan a Relaxing Unplugged Holiday in Taupō

With so much of our daily life in Aotearoa spent online, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by constant notifications and updates. Taking a step back from screens with an “unplugged” holiday offers a refreshing remedy, one that encourages genuine relaxation, meaningful connection, and a deeper appreciation of your surroundings.

If you’re looking for the perfect spot for that escape, look no further than Taupo. Nestled beside New Zealand’s largest lake and surrounded by volcanic landscapes, Taupo offers natural hot springs, tranquil hiking trails, and adventure activities such as kayaking to the Mine Bay Māori rock carvings and trout fishing, all of which encourage full immersion in the outdoors. You can enhance the experience even further by booking a chalet Taupo visitors highly recommend like the ones here at The Retreat, where you can truly soak in the area’s breathtaking beauty.

Planning your own unplugged getaway soon? We’ve put together some helpful tips to ensure you have a comfortable and unforgettable experience.

1. Book Comfortable Accommodation

The right accommodation is vital to ensuring a relaxing unplugged holiday. Make sure to choose a place that offers not only comfort but also a strong connection to nature. In Taupo, you’ll find plenty of options, but chalets stand out for their unique tranquillity, stunning views, and easy access to outdoor activities. Opting for one of The Retreat’s lakeside chalets provides the ideal setting to unwind and disconnect from the digital world, allowing you to fully embrace the serenity of your surroundings.

By planning ahead and booking the ideal spot, you’ll ensure your stay is as restful as possible. A peaceful, comfortable place to return to after a day of exploring will certainly make your getaway even more enjoyable.

2. Research Outdoor Activities in Advance

A key aspect of an unplugged holiday is spending time outdoors, and Taupo offers plenty of opportunities to do just that. Take the time to plan activities that allow you to fully immerse yourself in nature, whether it’s hiking in Tongariro National Park, soaking in geothermal hot springs, or fishing in Lake Taupo. Plan these activities in advance so you can spend more time relaxing and less time deciding what to do next.

3. Set Clear Boundaries for Screen Time

To make the most of your unplugged holiday, it’s important to set clear boundaries around your screen time. Before your trip, decide how often you’ll check your devices. You might also want to inform friends, family, or colleagues that you’ll be offline for the duration of your stay. Let them know that you’ll be generally inaccessible and only contact you in case of an emergency.

Having these boundaries in place will help you resist the temptation to check your phone constantly. This allows you to focus more on your surroundings and the people around you, making your vacation even more meaningful.

4. Look Into Local Wellness and Food Experiences

Taupō offers a range of wellness experiences to help you fully unwind—whatever ‘relaxation’ means to you.. Do you love getting pampered in a spa, indulging in good food, or perhaps both? Taupo has something that will nourish both your body and mind during your holiday. As mentioned, it’s best to plan these activities ahead so you don’t have to decide on the spot and feel pressured to make a choice.

5. Pack Mindfully for Your Trip

Packing mindfully is another essential part of a successful unplugged holiday. Since you’ll likely spend most of your time outdoors, think about what will help you feel comfortable and connected to nature. Bring along clothing suited to the weather and your planned activities, a good book for quiet moments, and perhaps a journal to reflect on your experiences.

Also, when you pack with intention, you’re less likely to forget anything, which means less worry, less stress, and more relaxation.

6. Plan for Downtime and Flexibility

While it’s tempting to fill your itinerary with activities, it’s just as important to plan for downtime. Over-scheduling can quickly become stressful, so leave space for rest and unstructured moments. It’s all up to you what to do in these moments: read by the lake, enjoy a quiet walk with no set destination, or even do nothing at all. Spending time to simply be present can make your holiday far more restorative.

Flexibility is just as vital. Some of the most memorable moments happen when you set the schedule aside and embrace the slower pace of life. Giving yourself room to breathe helps ensure your Taupo holiday remains relaxing and enjoyable from start to finish.

By thoughtfully planning your unplugged holiday, you’ll set the stage for a truly rejuvenating escape from the city rush or the daily grind. Taupo is the ideal place to disconnect and recharge, offering natural beauty and a peaceful atmosphere that invites you to slow down. To make the most of your visit, consider staying at The Retreat. Our lakeside chalets combine comfort, seclusion, and stunning surroundings, providing the perfect base to relax and unwind. Get in touch today to enquire about bookings and start planning your tranquil escape.