Lake Taupō Māori Rock Carvings Scenic Cruise aboard Ernest Kemp

Taupo , New Zealand

Lake Taupō Māori Rock Carvings Scenic Cruise aboard Ernest Kemp

Active

(855 reviews)

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Ernest Kemp Cruises cruising Lake Taupo for over 30 years. We specialise in visiting the Maori Rock Carvings daily. Enjoy the history of the area and this unique replica steamboat. Friendly skipper and crew offer a live commentary and a colour brochure explaining the meaning of the carvings. Lots of great photo opportunities with viewing and seating both inside and out. Bring a towel in summer months your skipper may decide there is time for a swim in our crystal clear lake.

Complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate and cookies. Free wifi on board.

4 cruises daily in the summer months, from 90 - 120 minutes. Our popular 5 pm Cocktail Cruise includes a couple of complimentary glasses of wine or beer and pizza, this is all included in the ticket price. Sit back and relax you will have great experience on board Ernest Kemp Cruises.

Available options

4.30pm 1.5 hour Cruise

4.30pm 1.5 hour Cruise: 4.30pm Cruise to the Maori Rock Carvings, with the option to swim at the skippers discretion. <br/>Duration: 1 hour 40 minutes

9am Early Bird Cruise

9am Early Bird Cruise : 9am Early Bird Cruise with Ernest Kemp to visit the Maori Rock Carvings.
Start the day with a relaxing Cruise.

12.30pm 1.5 Hour Cruise

Maori Rock Carving Cruise<br/>Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Maori Rock Carvings Cruise

What's included

Free WiFi on board

Live commentary from skipper & crew

Complimentary tea, coffee & cookies.

Scenic cruise on Ernest Kemp

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Sit back and relax cruising picturesque Lake Taupo to visit the famous Maori Rock Carvings with Ernest Kemp Cruises. Enjoy complimentary hot beverages, Free Wifi. Cruises between 90 -120 mins. Great photo opportunities. Comfortable seating inside and out. Live commentary of the lake and history of the local area.

What's not included

Snacks and drinks, alcoholic and non alcoholic available for purchase on board.

Hotel pickup/drop-off

Available languages

Written guide

DE EN ZH-CN FR ES

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

173 reviews

5★

124

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

682 reviews

5★

512

4★

133

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Well behaved dogs welcome.

Meeting point

Please go directly to the Boat, the boat is in Berth 2 at the Taupo Marina
Redoubt Street. Please report to the boat 15 mins prior to departure.
Your booking will be in the manifest and you will be met by a crew member.

Important notes

Please report directly to the boat, Berth 2 Taupo Marina. Redoubt St Taupo.
Please be at the berth 10-15 minutes before cruise departure. Our crew member will meet you and check you in. Do not be concerned if the boat is not in her berth, we will be back shortly from the previous cruise.
There is plenty of free parking at the marina.

About Taupo

Taupo is a charming lakeside town in New Zealand's North Island, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and adventure activities. With the vast Lake Taupo at its heart and the majestic Mount Ruapehu nearby, it's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation in breathtaking landscapes.

Top Attractions

Lake Taupo

Lake Taupo is the largest lake in New Zealand and offers a variety of water activities, stunning views, and scenic walks.

Nature Half day to full day Free to explore, activities vary in cost

Huka Falls

Huka Falls is a spectacular waterfall where the Waikato River narrows and drops 8 meters, creating a dramatic and powerful display.

Nature 1-2 hours Free to view, activities vary in cost

Craters of the Moon

Craters of the Moon is a geothermal area with bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and colorful mineral deposits.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings

The Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings are a series of impressive carvings on a cliff face, depicting Maori legends and history.

Cultural 2-3 hours including boat ride Approximately NZD 50-70 for boat tours

Taupo Bungy and Swing

Taupo Bungy and Swing offers thrilling bungy jumping and swinging experiences over the Waikato River.

Adventure 1-2 hours Approximately NZD 100-150

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hangi

A traditional Maori method of cooking food in an earth oven, resulting in tender and flavorful meats and vegetables.

Dinner Contains meat and vegetables, may not be suitable for strict vegetarians or vegans

Whitebait Fritters

A delicacy made from tiny whitebait fish, mixed with eggs and cooked into a savory fritter.

Lunch/Snack Contains fish and eggs, not suitable for those with seafood or egg allergies

Lamb Rack

New Zealand is famous for its high-quality lamb, and a rack of lamb is a must-try dish.

Dinner Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Popular Activities

Bungy jumping Jet boating Hiking Skiing Mountain biking Spa treatments Lakeside picnics Scenic walks

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. The weather is generally sunny and dry, perfect for exploring the lake and surrounding mountains.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Maori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Taupo is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it's always important to take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious when using ATMs
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas

Getting there

By air

Taupo Airport • 5 km from city center
Hamilton Airport • 100 km from Taupo

By bus

Taupo Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is reliable and affordable, with services connecting major areas in Taupo and surrounding regions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Taupo Town Centre Acacia Bay Nukuhau

Day trips

Rotorua

60 km from Taupo • Full day

Rotorua is famous for its geothermal activity, Maori culture, and adventure activities. It's a must-visit destination for those exploring the North Island.

Tongariro National Park

100 km from Taupo • Full day or overnight

Tongariro National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its volcanic landscapes, including the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

Hobbiton Movie Set

120 km from Taupo • Full day

The Hobbiton Movie Set is a must-visit for fans of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films, offering a unique glimpse into Middle-earth.

Festivals

Taupo Festival of Lights • Late November to early December Taupo Triathlon • Early December

Pro tips

Visit Huka Falls early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photographs.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore Lake Taupo at your own pace and discover hidden coves and beaches.
Take a guided tour of the Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings for a deeper understanding of the cultural significance and history.
Try a geothermal cooking experience at Huka Prawn Park for a unique and delicious dining adventure.
Pack layers of clothing, as the weather in Taupo can be variable and change quickly.