Water activity

Lake Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings 1.5-Hour Scenic Cruise

Activity provider: Chris Jolly Outdoors
Water activity

Lake Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings 1.5-Hour Scenic Cruise

Activity provider: Chris Jolly Outdoors
Likely to sell out

From US$ 21.68 per person

Likely to sell out
Eco-certified

Cruise on a large catamaran and take in the spectacular views of Lake Taupo framed by Tongariro National Park's majestic snow-capped mountain peaks. Discover the spectacular Maori rock carvings.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Covid-19 precautions
Special health and safety measures are in place. Check your activity voucher once you book for full details.
Duration 1.5 hours
Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide
English
Wheelchair accessible

Experience

Highlights
  • Discover the renowned Maori Rock Carvings on a cruise
  • Marvel at the beautiful panoramic scenery surrounding Taupo
  • Enjoy guided commentary to learn about the lake and the carvings
  • Feed the ducks and watch an optional fishing demonstration
Full description

Cruise through the crystal-clear, turquoise waters of Lake Taupo, taking in the vibrancy of Maori culture on a cruise. Explore the stunning surroundings of the lake while surrounded by rugged mountains and lush trees on the banks. Enjoy an optional fishing demonstration.

As you glide through the lake on your deluxe Catamaran, you’ll come to a massive carving depicting the traditional facial tattooing of the Maori people. Inspired by centuries of rich Maori tradition, artist Matahi Brightwell carved the elaborate relief into the side of a cliff directly above the lake’s pristine waters in 1980.

Depicting one of his grandmother’s ancestors, the carving represents a triumph of Maori artistry and the continued preservation of indigenous culture.

After visiting the Maori Rock Carvings, watch as the crew gives a trout fishing demonstration by setting some fishing lines and talking about the various fishing options allowed on Lake Taupo (if option selected).

At the end of the trip, you’ll head back to the dock to disembark.

Includes
  • 1.5-hour cruise aboard a 2-story catamaran
  • Experienced and professional local guide
  • Fishing demonstration (if option selected)
  • Life jackets
  • Tea or coffee and a muffin
  • Additional food

Select participants and date

Participants

Date

Meeting point

Berth 4, Taupo Boat Harbour, Chris Jolly Outdoors Redoubt St, Taupo 3330, New Zealand. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time.

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Important information

What to bring

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Jacket
  • Warm clothing

Know before you go

  • Subject to favourable weather conditions. In the event of bad weather, it may not be possible to view the Maori Rock Carvings. This decision is made at the discretion of the skipper for the health and safety of all on board the vessel.
  • Wheelchair access is dependent on lake levels and size of the wheelchair. You must call the office to book prior to traveling to see if the wheelchair can be accommodated.
Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 136 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.7/5
  • Transportation
    4.8/5
  • Service
    4.5/5
  • Organization
    5/5

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Star rating:

i would rate 2 stars for this trip. boat is nice, boatswoman too bossy, does not answer questions, where talking to much, looking behind was not on the wheel, not very reliable, more a showwoman than a captain. awfull nz english and very badly to understand. absolutely horrible is the staff in the shop where you have to pick up the ticket. she treats me like a dog. without "please" i heard a "Wait outside" in a bossy tone, after she has very slowly done her opening work, she shouted "now you come in". sorry I though i did not hear right, "are you talking to me or are you giving commands to a dog?"

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March 22, 2023

Really enjoyed this tour. Staff were so welcoming and friendly also extremely knowledgeable of the lake and the carvings. Thoroughly enjoyed our skippers running commentary very funny lady. Really enjoyed the resources on deck (tea and coffee) also a nice warm baked blueberry muffin which was delicious. Would recommend this tour for anybody travelling to Taupō.

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March 22, 2023

Roomy boat with good views. Excellent commentary and friendly crew. Plenty of time at the carvings to take pictures and ask questions and very informed guide. Free coffee tea and hot chocolate provided and the warm blueberry muffins were delicious. Easy to find and park.

March 22, 2023

Product ID: 263087