Highlights
- 90 minute scenic lake cruise in Taupo
- Visit the world famous Maori Rock Carvings
- Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings are only accessible by boat!
- Informative commentary on the region & its history
Description
Visit the world famous Maori Rock Carvings in Taupo on a 1.5 hour scenic cruise with Chris Jolly Outdoors. This award-winning tour company has provided visitors with exceptional experiences on Lake Taupo for over 40 years, including daily scenic cruises to the Ngātoroirangi Maori Rock Carvings. A New Zealand must-see, these 14 metre tall Maori Rock Carvings depict the ancestry & cultural heritage of Lake Taupo and are only accessible by boat.
The Lake Taupo scenic cruise begins with a leisurely tour of New Zealand's largest lake, including live commentary along the way. As you glide along, you'll be treated to stunning views of Lake Taupo and its surrounding scenery. You may even spot some of the local wildlife, such as trout or native birds.
You will then reach the highlight of the tour, the Maori Rock Carvings. Accessible only by boat or kayak, these impressive carvings were created by a Maori artist in 1980. They depict the Maori legends and stories that are an important part of New Zealand's cultural heritage, and are now an iconic attraction in New Zealand.
As you approach the carvings, your knowledgeable guide will share the history and significance of the carvings, as well as some of the stories and legends that inspired the artist, Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell. You will have plenty of time to take photos and admire the intricate details of the carvings before heading back to the Taupo Boat Harbour.
The Lake Taupo scenic cruise to the Maori Rock Carvings with Chris Jolly Outdoors is a must-do experience for anyone visiting New Zealand. With stunning scenery, fascinating history, and expert guides, this tour is sure to be a highlight of your trip.
Trip Includes
- 1.5 hour scenic cruise of Lake Taupo
- Visit the Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings
- Informative commentary
- Spacious outdoor viewing platforms & comfortable seating onboard the Cruise Cat
- Hot beverage & homemade muffin included on all cruises
- Complimentary glass of wine or beer included for 5pm summer cruise only
- Trout fishing demonstration included on 1:30pm cruise only
Duration
- Allow 2 hours (1.5 hour cruise)
Departures
- 10:30am & 1:30pm (additional 5:00pm departure in summer)
- Departs from Berth 4, Taupo Boat Harbour on Redoubt Street
- Operates daily all year
Other Information
- Large groups are welcome
- Kids entertainment onboard includes colouring, driving the boat (ask the Skipper), a treasure hunt & friendly staff
- Child (4-16yrs) & infant (0-3yrs) rates apply
- Concession rates available (65yrs+)
- Toilet facilities onboard
- The Cruise Cat is stroller friendly & wheelchair accessible (no disabled toilet on board)
- Don't forget your camera!
Normal Retail Prices
- Adult: NZD$59.00
- Child (4-16yrs): NZD$20.00
- Infant (0-3yrs): NZD$10.00
- Senior (65yrs+): NZD$55.00
- Family (2ad+2ch): NZD$139.00
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All prices shown in NZD$.