Only accessible by water, the Ngatoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings in Lake Taupō were created by artist and master carver, Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell.

The artwork depicts Matahi’s ancestor, Ngātoroirangi, a visionary Māori navigator who guided the Tuwharetoa and Te Arawa tribes to the Taupō area over a thousand years ago. Reaching 14 metres in height and accessible only by water, work on the carvings began in 1976 as Matahi meticulously hand carved the design into the rock.

Mine Bay Rock Carvings-Left
Mine Bay Rock Carvings-Right

Glide along the crystal-clear waters of Lake Taupō past steep cliffs and mini-inlets before sighting the 14-metre high Māori carvings at Mine Bay. Take a moment while the guide shares insights into the cultural significance of the region and enjoy on-water refreshments. In the summertime, consider a refreshing dip.

Note, this activity is not available on 25 December and 1 January.