Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings
Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings

Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings

Lake Taupo

The Basics

Set high on the cliffs on the edge of Lake Taupo, these rock carvings are only accessible by water. Take a guided trip to the site a cruise boat, steamboat, or yacht, or paddle out in a kayak, and learn about the symbolic significance, myths, and meaning behind the carvings. Lake tours offer breathtaking views of the shore and the volcanic peaks of UNESCO-listed Tongariro National Park, and many include extras, such as refreshments, snacks, live fishing demonstrations, and the opportunity to swim in the lake. For a more romantic experience, opt for a sunset yacht cruise.

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Maori Rock Carvings Scenic Cruise
Maori Rock Carvings Scenic Cruise
star-4.5
US$24.22 per adult
Traveler Favorite
Informative and a good length of time, getting a decent view of the lake!
The staff were super friendly, cool tour with lots of info and the 1.5 - 2 hours was plenty of time to see the lake!
Matilda_H, Sep 2023

Recent reviews from experiences in Taupo

Informative and a good length of time, getting a decent view of the lake!
star-5
Informative and a good length of time, getting a decent view of the lake!
Matilda_H, Sep 2023
Maori Rock Carvings Scenic Cruise
The staff were super friendly, cool tour with lots of info and the 1.5 - 2 hours was plenty of time to see the lake!
Worth doing
star-4
Worth doing
Brent_D, Sep 2023
Maori Rock Carvings Eco Sailing Taupo
Lovely cruise down the lake with Chris, very funny man. The yacht was so peaceful instead of a noisy motor. The carvings were fantastic, very detailed. Tea and coffee available on board too. Well worth it.
Lovely tour
star-5
Lovely tour
Leesa_N, Aug 2023
Maori Rock Carvings - Taupo Sailing Adventures - Kindred Spirit
Loved it! 10/10 recommend going with the Kindred Scenic Tour! Was awesome views & great hospitality. Having blankets and refreshments was also a great touch :)
AWESOME!!!
star-4
AWESOME!!!
Aaron_H, Aug 2023
Daily Scenic Maori Rock Carving Cruise Taupo
Very educational information about lake tauoo and carvings also very humouris skipper and crew kids were kept entertained with a treasure hunt on board aswell as a photo behind skippers wheel highly recommend the cruise cat team was an awesome experience will be doing again
Chris was a great...
star-5
Chris was a great...
Sharon_C, Aug 2023
Maori Rock Carvings Eco Sailing Taupo
Chris was a great guide... Good banter with the Aussies on the boat. Well practised patter. Lovely to be on a boat without diesel fumes
Great experience...
star-5
Great experience...
Bikramjeet_S, Jul 2023
Daily Scenic Maori Rock Carving Cruise Taupo
Great experience wonderful staff and hospitality and amazing view Love it. Totally worth it , would like to recommend everyone
The skipper was friendly...
star-5
The skipper was friendly...
Kieran_C, Jun 2023
Maori Rock Carvings - Taupo Sailing Adventures - Kindred Spirit
The skipper was friendly and kept the sail alive and the scenery was amazing. Definatly something I would tell other people to experience.
Great!
star-5
Great!
Eloise_L, Jun 2023
Maori Rock Carvings Scenic Cruise
I loved the whole experience and found it interesting to learn more about Taupo and the surroundings.
The captain was...
star-5
The captain was...
Angela_R, Aug 2023
Maori Rock Carvings Eco Sailing Taupo
The captain was wonderful, with great details but also quiet time to reflect on the history of the Māori heritage and the volcanic history of lake Taupo. Overall a great experience!
Well worth it
star-5
Well worth it
Paula_J, Apr 2023
Half-Day Kayak to the Maori Rock Carvings in Lake Taupo
I have always wanted to do this and it didn’t disappoint.A good workout with a great guide, hot chocolate and muffins and the carvings are impressive .We were able to get up close.
Highly Recommend!
star-4
Highly Recommend!
Frances_T, Jul 2023
Daily Scenic Maori Rock Carving Cruise Taupo
Nice spacious boat, which was great for all weathers - easy to see out the windows. Good commentary on board, and the refreshments were really nice too! Thoroughly enjoyed our trip.
thank you very much for such a beautiful experience
star-5
thank you very much for such a beautiful experience
Elena_W, Jul 2023
Daily Scenic Maori Rock Carving Cruise Taupo
Amazing cruise team and awesome gide, skipper Pirat Pete, very interesting facts about the Taupo Lake
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Things to Know Before You Go

  • The Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings are popular with travelers interested in Maori culture.

  • Kayaking tours are suitable for beginners, and equipment is provided.

  • Note that weather conditions on Lake Taupo can be changeable, so it’s best to bring a warm outer layer with you, even in summer.

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How to Get There

The carvings are situated in the lakeside cliffs near Mine Bay, on the north shore of the lake. Access is by boat only. Boats typically depart from Lake Taupo Marina near Redoubt Street. There are several kayak launch points near Acacia Bay Road, south of Taupo.

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When to Get There

Go early in the morning or in the evening when there is less boat traffic on the lake. Evening sailings are particularly picturesque, thanks to the soft glow of sunset.

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Delve into Maori Culture in Taupo

For visitors interested in learning more about and the Maori culture and history, there are several popular sights in the Taupo region. Admire the craftsmanship of the intricately carved Te Aroha o Rongoheikume meeting house at Taupo Museum, see the remains of a Maori fortified village at Opotaka Historic Reserve, or watch a traditional kapa haka performance, which includes singing, dancing, and chanting.

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Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Q:
What are the nearest attractions to Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings?
A:
Attractions near Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings: