Stayed for two nights at Irene and Neil’s to see what Taupo was about. It was a very clean place with a great view over the lake. Just underneath there’s a small beach to swim in. It’s around 15 minutes drive to town and it’s really easy to have Taxi Taupo (just google it) pick you up and drive you back and forth for dinner and they accept credit card. Didn’t meet anyone during the stay but all instructions were clear so it all worked out.