A Beginner’s Guide to the Maori Rock Carvings 1.5-Hour Scenic Cruise in Taupo

Do you want to experience the magical beauty of the Maori rock carvings in Lake Taupo, New Zealand? Have you been looking for the perfect way to do this? The Maori Rock Carvings 1.5-Hour Scenic Cruise in Taupo is the perfect way to experience this breathtaking natural wonder.

On this tour, you’ll get to enjoy an unforgettable experience, with friends or alone, as you wander through this beautiful part of the North Island of New Zealand. During the cruise, you’ll pass by many of the iconic Maori Rock Carvings, view magnificent waterfalls, learn about traditional Maori stories, explore hidden coves and more.

This guide is made to provide you with all the necessary information about this unique voyage, from the duration of the cruise, to the rate and how to book it. So let’s get started and learn what this excursion has in store for you!

What is The Maori Rock Carvings 1.5-Hour Scenic Cruise?

The Maori Rock Carvings 1.5-Hour Scenic Cruise is an excellent activity for those who want to experience the beauty of Lake Taupo and the unique Maori culture of New Zealand. You don’t need any previous experience or knowledge to take part in this cruise – all you need is a sense of adventure!

This cruise is offered by GetYourGuide and leaves from Taupo Boat Ramp, which is easily accessible from anywhere in Taupo. Upon boarding your boat, your tour guide will provide you with fresh fruit snacks, water, and a safety briefing, after which you will start your exploration of the lake and its many wonders.

What You Will See on The Tour

The trek lasts one and a half hours and you will have lots of time to take in some of the most stunning sights that Lake Taupo has to offer. You will get a chance to see many iconic Maori Rock Carvings up close, explore hidden coves and learn about different traditional Maori stories along the way.

You’ll also get to catch glimpses of magnificent waterfalls, explore various bird reserves and bask in the beautiful nature that surrounds you. All this diversity makes for a unique cruise experience and will give you memories that will last a lifetime.

What Makes The Cruise Unique?

The uniqueness of the Maori Rock Carvings 1.5-Hour Scenic Cruise in Taupo lies in its small tour size. There are no large groups on board, meaning that you can enjoy a more intimate experience that allows you to take your time and take in all the natural beauty surrounding you uninterrupted. You can also discuss with your tour guide any curiosities or questions you may have about the lake and its many wonders.

You’ll also get access to audio equipment, so you can tune into onboard commentary at different stations which will enrich your knowledge and understanding of the lake and its native culture.

Rate & How To Book

The rate for the Maori Rock Carvings 1.5-Hour Scenic Cruise depends on your date of travel and the size of your group – see below for a comprehensive list:

• Adults: NZ$60 per person
• Children: NZ$30 per person
• Groups of 6 or more: Please contact GetYourGuide for further information

You can book your place on this once-in-a-lifetime cruise via GetYourGuide. Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance so make sure you book ahead of time to avoid disappointment!

Conclusion: A Must Do Experience

The Maori Rock Carvings 1.5-Hour Scenic Cruise in Taupo is an incredible experience that is well worth considering if you’re looking for a unique way to explore Lake Taupo. With fresh snacks, audio commentary and unbeatable views, this cruise is sure to be an unforgettable experience that you can share with friends and family. Plus, with its competitive pricing and easy booking system via GetYourGuide, there isn’t much excuse to not give this cruise a try! So don’t forget to book your spot today via GetYourGuide.

An Insider’s Guide to Taupō: Beyond the Maori Rock Carvings 1.5-Hour Scenic Cruise

If you’re planning a trip to Taupō, you’ve likely heard of the popular Maori Rock Carvings Cruise. While this is undoubtedly a fantastic experience, the town offers so much more to visitors. As a local, I want to share some hidden gems, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that are sure to make your trip to Taupō unforgettable.

Local Attractions

Besides the Maori Rock Carvings, Taupō has plenty of other natural wonders to explore. One hidden gem is the Wairakei Terraces, where you can indulge in natural hot springs, but with a twist. The terraces are made up of a series of pools that mimic the original pink and white terraces. The terraces were once considered the eighth wonder of the world before they were destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1886.

For some adventure, you should check out Aratiatia Rapids, where the Waikato River’s controlled release transforms into a raging torrent of water. The release happens four times a day, but this natural wonder is not known to many tourists.

Dining Spots

The best way to experience the local cuisine is by trying the piha karengo, an edible seaweed commonly found around Lake Taupo. Local restaurants are serving up this delicacy in creative ways. You can try it as a seasoning on your fries or as a garnish on your sushi roll. Another unique dish to indulge in is the Maori hangi, where food is cooked in a pit under the ground, giving it a smoky flavor. You can try this dish along with other Maori delicacies at Tamaki Maori Village.

Cultural Experiences

One of the most exciting cultural experiences in Taupō is the Maori cultural show at Tamaki Maori Village. Here you can witness the powhiri, a traditional Maori welcome ceremony, and enjoy a feast of kai, which is food, and enjoy traditional Maori dances. The show is a great way to discover more about New Zealand’s indigenous culture. You can also visit the Huka Falls Visitor Center, where you can learn about the falls’ history and significance to the Maori people.

Local History

The history of Taupō is fascinating, with many local legends and tales to discover. One such legend is the story of Huka Prawn Park’s creation, where they have made an artificial farm to breed prawns. The story goes that the owners of the park wanted a unique way to serve prawns, and thus the idea of the park was born. Another interesting historical fact is that Taupō was once a vast lake of lava that erupted around 26,500 years ago, and over time, rain and snowmelt have transformed it into New Zealand’s largest lake.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to experience Taupō’s beauty without the crowd, take an early morning hike to the Mount Tauhara summit. The hike takes around three to four hours, but the views from the top are breathtaking. You can witness the sunrise over the lake and the mountains around. Another suggestion is to visit the Opepe Reserve, where you can witness a lush forest and a beautiful waterfall. The peacefulness of the reserve is like no other, and you can enjoy a serene picnic, surrounded by nature.

In conclusion, Taupō is a hidden gem that has so much to offer to visitors. From hidden natural wonders to unique culinary experiences, from cultural shows to historical sites, Taupō is a place where there is something for everyone. I hope this insider’s guide has helped you uncover a few of Taupō’s secrets and allows you to experience the town like a local.