• Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Policy
  • About
  • Contact
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter

Last Minute Wanders

Trips & Treks for the Thrifty Traveller

  • Last Minute Wanders
  • Start Here
  • Travel Planning
  • Destinations
  • Hiking
  • FREE Training

Lake Taupō’s impressive Māori rock carving

Dated: January 20, 2020

29 shares
  • Share
  • Tweet
Carving of face in rock with clear blue water
Taupō rock carving

Lake Taupō is a huge body of water in the middle of New Zealand’s North Island.

The lake is actually the crater from a huge volcanic eruption dating back 26,500 years. Its deepest point is 186 metres.

There are many cruise or kayak options to get out onto the lake, and the main attraction is the large Māori rock carving at Mine Bay.

The Rock Carving

The rock carving was created in the late 1970’s by master carver Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell.

After completing 10 years of training with Māori elders, he returned to his grandmother’s land with a plan to create a major carving.

Most Māori carving is done with wood, but when he saw the rock face, he knew it was the perfect spot.

At 10 metres high, and taking four summers to complete, his art is now available to view by anyone who ventures onto the lake.

The largest and main piece is a depiction of Ngatoroirangi: a Māori navigator who guided two tribes to the area over one thousand years ago.

Around the rocks on either side are lots of smaller rock carvings.

The Cruise

View of lake with mountains in background
Tongariro mountains viewed from the lake

When we visited the rock carvings, we chose to go with Ernest Kemp cruises.

At $35 to $45 per person, depending on your departure time, it was the cheapest cruise option available.

And I can highly recommend it!

The boat is a replica steamboat built in the 1980’s and you have the option to sit outside or inside.

The trip out to the carving is around 40 minutes to an hour. Complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits are provided.

The captain also provides a commentary of interesting information.

He told us about the western bays of the lake as we were passing them, as well as the lake itself and the distant Tongariro mountains on the far side.

Upon arriving at Mine Bay, he told us the story of the huge rock carving while getting the front of the steamboat almost impossibly close to it. We could almost touch it!

We saw some of the other boats arriving while we floated around in Mine Bay, including a large sail boat.

But I was very happy with our replica steamboat and don’t feel I missed out by not going with one of the more expensive options.

There were also a few kayaks around, which is the other way to view the carvings. This option looks like a great day out if you have more time.

Don’t Miss It!

Small rock carvings with clear blue water
Some of the smaller carvings nestled to the side of the rock face

No matter which cruise or kayak company you go with, make sure you visit the rock carvings if you’re heading to Taupō.

They’re not as ancient as people first assume, but the skill and cultural knowledge that went into creating them are a must-see.

It’s a fine example of a man using his creativity and talent to provide a wonderful cultural experience.

Have you visited the Taupō rock carving? Is it on your bucket list? Let me know in the comments! 🙂

Want more like this? Check out these articles:

  • Top 7 awesome things to do in Auckland
  • Mount Taranaki summit track
  • Moving to New Zealand on a Working Holiday Visa

All images in this post are the property of lastminutewanders.com

Carving of face in rock with text overlay - Lake Taupo's impressive Maori rock carving
«
»

Posted Under: Destinations, New Zealand

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

Connect

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Hello and welcome!

My name is Sarah and I am the owner of Last Minute Wanders.
I started travelling long-term in November 2012 and I haven't looked back!
Exploring new destinations fills me with joy and I'm here to help you plan your own long-term travel adventure, without the drama. Read More…

FREE TRAINING!

Subscribe today to get your FREE access to the Travel Plan The Easy Way training! 

You'll learn everything you need for a stress-free travel planning process, and you'll also get weekly travel tips, lessons and destination inspiration straight to your inbox!

Privacy Policy: I hate spam and promise to keep your email address safe. You can unsubscribe anytime. 

Thank you!

Your FREE TRAINING is on its way to your inbox right now!

.

Featured Articles

Ancient stone gateway tower with corridors leading off to left and right and a stone courtyard in front

Top 6 things to do in Cambodia

Silver car with back doors open parked on grass in front of beach

Living in a campervan: surviving van life long term

Pure white sand beach against clear blue sky with white truck in the distance

How to travel for free around the world!

View down wet beach, reflecting the blue sky and white clouds

12 Beautiful Hidden Gems in New Zealand

Connect with me on Instagram!

lastminutewanders

✈️ Travel & Mindset Mentor
✨ Helping you plan world travel without the drama
🏝 Planning, Destinations & Hikes
📍 England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿
🌏 28 countries visited

Sarah Meyer | LMW
Here's a quick summary of places I recommend in Ne Here's a quick summary of places I recommend in New Zealand!
Follow me for more 😎
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
Two years spent in this indescribably beautiful co Two years spent in this indescribably beautiful country were not enough!
New Zealand is more amazing than you could ever dream of...
Do you want to go??
Follow me for more 🌍
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
Are you worried about jet lag ruining the first fe Are you worried about jet lag ruining the first few days of your trip? 
Here are my top tips to help you enjoy your adventure from day one!
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
Check the entry requirements well in advance of yo Check the entry requirements well in advance of your departure so you know exactly what to expect, how much it will cost and how long it will take.
Follow me for more long term travel planning tips! 😎
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
IT DOESN'T HAVE TO BE HARD!! Follow me for practic IT DOESN'T HAVE TO BE HARD!! Follow me for practical tips and advice for long-term travel planning 😎✌🏻
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
When I was planning my first long-term travel adve When I was planning my first long-term travel adventure, my family (understandably) wanted to know all about where I would be going and what I would be doing. And I had only the vaguest of ideas!
Are you a planner or do you prefer to be spontaneous? 🤓
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
Hostels are such a great accommodation option for Hostels are such a great accommodation option for long-term travellers on a budget!
Follow me for practical tips and advice for long-term travel 😎
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
Here's your pre-departure checklist for everything Here's your pre-departure checklist for everything you need to remember in the lead up to your adventure!
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
It's time to start booking, buying and applying fo It's time to start booking, buying and applying for those important things that will make your travel plans more concrete!
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
Load More… Follow on Instagram

Footer

Connect with me on Instagram!

lastminutewanders

✈️ Travel & Mindset Mentor
✨ Helping you plan world travel without the drama
🏝 Planning, Destinations & Hikes
📍 England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿
🌏 28 countries visited

Sarah Meyer | LMW
Here's a quick summary of places I recommend in Ne Here's a quick summary of places I recommend in New Zealand!
Follow me for more 😎
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
Two years spent in this indescribably beautiful co Two years spent in this indescribably beautiful country were not enough!
New Zealand is more amazing than you could ever dream of...
Do you want to go??
Follow me for more 🌍
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
Are you worried about jet lag ruining the first fe Are you worried about jet lag ruining the first few days of your trip? 
Here are my top tips to help you enjoy your adventure from day one!
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
Check the entry requirements well in advance of yo Check the entry requirements well in advance of your departure so you know exactly what to expect, how much it will cost and how long it will take.
Follow me for more long term travel planning tips! 😎
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
IT DOESN'T HAVE TO BE HARD!! Follow me for practic IT DOESN'T HAVE TO BE HARD!! Follow me for practical tips and advice for long-term travel planning 😎✌🏻
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
When I was planning my first long-term travel adve When I was planning my first long-term travel adventure, my family (understandably) wanted to know all about where I would be going and what I would be doing. And I had only the vaguest of ideas!
Are you a planner or do you prefer to be spontaneous? 🤓
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
Hostels are such a great accommodation option for Hostels are such a great accommodation option for long-term travellers on a budget!
Follow me for practical tips and advice for long-term travel 😎
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
Here's your pre-departure checklist for everything Here's your pre-departure checklist for everything you need to remember in the lead up to your adventure!
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
It's time to start booking, buying and applying fo It's time to start booking, buying and applying for those important things that will make your travel plans more concrete!
Don't forget to:
♥️ Double tap
💬 Leave a comment
📤 Share with a friend
📥 Save it for later
💌 DM me to chat!
#travelexpert #travelmentor #mindsetmentor #travelmindset #travelmotivation #mindsetmatters #travelplanning #travelplantheeasyway #travelplanningmadeeasy #longtermtravel #worldtravel #firsttimetravel #firsttimetraveller #lastminutewanders
Load More… Follow on Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
© 2023 Last Minute Wanders
29 shares