Commercial operations
Taiōhanga
Commercial Operations
About Taupo Waters Ownership
If you wish to undertake commercial activities on Taupō Waters, you will need to obtain a licence. This includes a commercial operation, commercial events, filming, and photography activities.
Using / around LAKE TAUPŌ
What do you need permission for?
Events
- Community Events
- Fishing Competitions
- Water Sports
- Triathlon (Swim)
Filming & Photography
- Documentary
- Television
- Media Production
- Drone Filming
- Aerial Photography
- Photography
- Social Media
- Vlogger
- Influencer Content
- Tourism
- Commercial Promotion
Commercial Operations
- Aircraft
- Fishing Guides
- Accommodation
- Boat Operators
- Fishing Guides
- Tourism Operators
- Water Activities
Other
- Research & Monitoring projects
- Training/Access activities (Navy, Police, SAR)
- Media
Frequently asked questions
No, permission is only required for commercial activities, organized events, and professional filming/photography. Personal recreational use of Lake Taupō is welcome and does not require permission from the Trust Board.
Commercial activity includes any operation where you charge fees or generate income from activities on Taupō Waters. This includes boat charters, fishing guides, tourism operations, water sports businesses, and aircraft operations over the lake. If you’re unsure, please contact our team.
We require 20 working days notice to properly assess applications and ensure all cultural and environmental protocols are met. If your event is urgent, contact us immediately at permissions@tuwharetoa.co.nz to discuss your situation. Late applications may not be approved in time.
Yes, if you are creating content for commercial purposes (including influencer content, sponsored posts, or content that generates income), you need permission. This includes vloggers, content creators, and social media influencers operating on Taupō Waters.
Processing times vary depending on the complexity of your application. Standard applications typically take 10-15 working days. This is why we require 20 working days notice – to ensure adequate time for assessment and approval before your activity date.