Half-Day Kayak to the Maori Rock Carvings in Lake Taupo

Highlights

  • Half Day Maori Rock Carving: Kayaking, swimming or rock jumping (optional) Explore Lake Taupo as you kayak to the Maori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay. You will start your half day tour from the sheltered waters of Acacia Bay before paddling out on the lake below native bush, past steep cliffs and mini inlets that can only harbor a kayak. The experienced guide will explain the carving's cultural significance to the lake and surrounding areas while you float beneath them. On the way back stop for gourmet refreshments and can take the opportunity to swim or go for a rock jumping into the clear waters of the beautiful lake. If the breeze comes up, you can raft your kayaks together and sail back – bliss! Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Departure time is at 8:30am and 1:30pm in summer and 10:00am and 1:30pm in winter from our base in Acacia Bay. Allow approx 4 hours per trip (3 hours on the water). 

Summary

Half Day Maori Rock Carving: Kayaking, swimming or rock jumping (optional) Explore Lake Taupo as you kayak to the Maori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay. You will start your half day tour from the sheltered waters of Acacia Bay before paddling out on the lake below native bush, past steep cliffs and mini inlets that can only harbor a kayak. The experienced guide will explain the carving's cultural significance to the lake and surrounding areas while you float beneath them. On the way back stop for gourmet refreshments and can take the opportunity to swim or go for a rock jumping into the clear waters of the beautiful lake. If the breeze comes up, you can raft your kayaks together and sail back – bliss! Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Departure time is at 8:30am and 1:30pm in summer and 10:00am and 1:30pm in winter from our base in Acacia Bay. Allow approx 4 hours per trip (3 hours on the water). 

Tour info

Duration
4 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Explore Lake Taupo as you kayak to the Maori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay. You will start your half day tour from the sheltered waters of Acacia Bay before paddling out on the lake below native bush, past steep cliffs and mini inlets that can only harbor a kayak. The experienced guide will explain the carving's cultural significance to the lake and surrounding areas while you float beneath them. On the way back stop for gourmet refreshments and can take the opportunity to swim or go for a rock jumping into the clear waters of the beautiful lake. If the breeze comes up, you can raft your kayaks together and sail back – bliss! Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Departure time is at 8:30am and 1:30pm in summer and 10:00am and 1:30pm in winter from our base in Acacia Bay. Allow approx 4 hours per trip (3 hours on the water). 

What’s included?

  • Full instructions and commentary

  • Professional and experienced guide

  • Top-quality kayaking equipment

  • Safety gear

  • Muffin or another lovely refreshment

  • Coffee and/or Tea

  • Transport to starting Point: On request only (if you don't have your own car) Call to arrange.

  • Gear List: Please refer to our Gear list tab on our website for what to wear and bring.

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 4h

  • Mobile tickets accepted

  • Instant confirmation

Covid Policy

  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
  • Guides required to regularly wash hands

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operated by:

Taupo Kayaking Adventures

About operator:

Paddle a kayak to the magnificent Maori rock carvings on Lake Taupo with a half-day tour from Acacia Bay. You’ll learn the cultural significance behind the towering inscriptions, which were completed in 1980, and enjoy great views across the crystal-clear lake to the Tongariro Mountains. Approaching the Maori rock carvings by kayak means you can see them up close, passing native bush and tiny inlets, then floating right at the base of the cliff. Both morning and afternoon departures are available and beginning paddlers are welcome.

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