Evening Eco Sailing Adventure to Māori Rock Carvings Lake Taupō

Taupo , New Zealand

Evening Eco Sailing Adventure to Māori Rock Carvings Lake Taupō

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(4 reviews)

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About this experience

Discover the stunning Māori Rock Carvings on Lake Taupō aboard a 100% electric yacht. This eco-friendly cruise offers a unique blend of relaxation and cultural storytelling, perfect for all types of travelers. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere where you can bring your own food and drinks while soaking up the sun, swimming, or even taking the helm. Engage with knowledgeable crew members as they share tales of Taupō’s volcanic landscape and Māori heritage, ensuring a memorable experience. Whether you're seeking a scenic day trip or a sunset cocktail cruise, Sail Barbary provides an unforgettable connection to nature and culture.

Explore the iconic 14-meter Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings, accessible only by water
Enjoy a relaxed cruise with BYO food and drinks, plus complimentary drinks on evening sails
Engage in cultural storytelling from the enthusiastic crew about local legends and history
Experience sustainable sailing on a 100% electric yacht, perfect for eco-conscious travelers

Available options

Evening Eco Sailing Adventure to Māori Rock Carvings Lake Taupō

What's included

Ponchos and Towels

Free drink and Postcard

Knowledge and Friendly Skippers

Restroom on board

Plenty of free parking

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Artist Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell created the Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings in the late 1970s. The images were carved by hand into the cliffs over Lake Taupo using traditional Maori techniques. Matahi and a team of four assistants completed the work over four summers.

The centerpiece of the Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings depicts the tattooed face of Ngatoroirangi, the legendary navigator who guided the Maori tribes of Tūwharetoa and Te Arawa to the Taupo region more than a thousand years ago. Additional Celtic sculptures show other local Maori tupuna (ancestors) and kaitiaki (guardians).

The more than 33-foot (10-meter) tall artwork can only be viewed from the water, so the best way to visit is by boat from nearby Taupo.

The crew members are more than just sailors. They’re local storytellers, conservationists, and passionate advocates for Lake Taupō. Whether you’re visiting the Māori Rock Carvings, learning how to trim a sail, or just relaxing on deck, the crew is there to guide, inform, and make your experience unforgettable.

What's not included

We have a bar on board to purchase alcohol

We do not provide food but you can BYO your own food and snacks

We do not offer private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet your skipper at Berths 9&10
Taupo Boat Harbour, 3330

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to booking time to ensure plenty of time to board the boat.

There is ample free parking in the harbour

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.