Sacred Maori Carvings Kayak: Unforgettable Water Journey
Price From $72.38 per person
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Glide your kayak over Lake Taupo's crystal clear waters as you paddle to the awe-inspiring Maori Rock Carvings on this 4-hour guided tour. Soak in the view across the Lake to 3 live volcano's while you hear the history of the carvings, various Maori legends and facts of the local area from your guide before enjoying rock jumps and a swim in Australasia's largest freshwater Lake. A must-do while in Taupo!
Reviews
Reviews and Rating (Tripadvisor)
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Reviews by Tripadvisor travelers
Quest35639320561, 8/1/2025 12:37:59 AM
Had my own private tour as I was the only one who booked it for that day. Lisa was an excellent tour guide. Showed me what to do as I’ve never been in a kayak before. Weather was cloudy sky but clear and the water was still to and from the carving. We got up right to the rock and got some great photos ( on her phone which she sent an email later on) the stop off for refreshments was nice. Chatted along the way learning about the rock carving among other NZ cultures. Enjoyed my time from start to finish (shoulders felt it the next day) I know summer is good with the weather, but honestly winter is just as good as it was less quiet plus you could have a tour on your own.
Chloe_J, 5/12/2025 12:48:23 AM
Awesome and knowledgeable guide! Amazing views! So happy we did this! Would do this tour again. 10000% recommend!
Dream33974713997, 4/27/2025 4:05:38 AM
My Son and I thoroughly enjoyed our tour, Our guide Glen was pleasant, helpful, and knowledgeable. Can highly recommend.
jools301, 1/17/2025 2:42:19 AM
I was the only person on the trip so had a 1:1 guided tour which was great. The guide was very informative and knowledgeable and made me feel very safe. The kayaking was lovely, as was the weather. The rock carvings were amazing!
609taylerb, 1/13/2025 7:22:11 PM
Our trip to the Māori Carbings was fantastic! Eloise was a fabulous guide - very knowledgeable and friendly and made our experience incredibly enjoyable. We are not experienced kayakers but Eloise made sure we knew what to do and we felt very comfortable the whole time. Would absolutely recommend this trip to anyone visiting Taupo :)
Nina_M, 12/16/2024 11:24:49 AM
The guides were very knowledgeable and helpful, Lisa even brought us to the bank to re-adjust our pedals and the other guide pulled us for a bit!!!
R4645JOvictoriap, 12/11/2024 6:55:39 AM
Had the most unreal time, we were looked after incredibly well and had the best experience. Our guide was beyond amazing too, Thank you so much! ❤️
Ulrike_R, 12/8/2024 4:43:46 PM
A bit disappointing, wasn't able to see the Maori carvings, due to very choppy conditions on the lake but enjoyed the river canoeing. Staff was wonderful.
alexak913, 12/1/2024 2:03:31 AM
Great experience! The kayaking bit was really fun and the carvings are awesome! Great guide, and nice little resting stop with hot drinks and biscuits!
jameskT6881DI, 7/13/2024 12:49:48 AM
The sights were stunning. Evan was an excellent tour guide. Morning weather was cold but it turned out much warmer out on the lake. We appreciated the support the team gave us with gear and information. Highly recommend this tour
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Operates all year, please dress appropriately for the seasons - NO JEANS/DENIM
- Minimum age is 12 years
- Minimum of 2 people required for the tour to run, if the minimum number is not reached we will contact you to reschedule
Departure point
Please meet us at Canoe & Kayak 15 minutes before your scheduled departure.Return details
Glide your kayak over Lake Taupo's crystal clear waters as you paddle to the awe-inspiring Maori Rock Carvings on this 4-hour guided tour. Soak in the view across the Lake to 3 live volcano's while you hear the history of the carvings, various Maori legends and facts of the local area from your guide before enjoying rock jumps and a swim in Australasia's largest freshwater Lake. A must-do while in Taupo!Redemption
• Not recommended for participants with back problems • Not recommended for pregnant women • Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions24 hours before travel date - 100% refund
Less than 24 hours before travel date - 0% refund