No drive through the central plateau should be complete without a stop at Taupo’s Storehouse Café. Owners Brad Dellar and Sam King have worked their creative magic on an old warehouse, transforming the space into an airy, light filled tribute to delicious coffee and food. Shelves of design curiosities line the walls, fresh flowers are available for purchase daily, and the coffee, available in espresso, Chemex and cold brew form, is courtesy of Kokako. Fill up on freshly baked bagels and sliders, keep the children content with a steady stream of bliss balls, and if the sun comes out, secure a streetfront spot. It’s far too easy to let the hours slip by at this inviting local.