Lake Taupo

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.

Daily Scenic Cruises – Maori Rock Carvings Please note we are changing our afternoon departure time from 1.30pm to 1.00pm from 1st November 2024. Our Daily Scenic Cruises depart from Berth #4 at the Taupo Boat Harbour on Cruise Cat. You’ll love cruising in comfort and style with fabulous views from both the top and bottom decks. Cruise Cat is fully enclosed with large outdoor decks to enjoy close up views of the Maori Rock Carvings.  Children are welcome, and we have colouring-in sheets and wheel certificates available for them.  Cruise Cat is also wheelchair and push chair/stroller accessible. An informative commentary is given on the volcanic history and Maori mythology surrounding Lake Taupo, and you’ll enjoy a complimentary hot homemade muffin and tea/coffee as you take in the fabulous views of secluded bays and the spectacular snow capped mountain peaks of the World Heritage Tongariro National Park.

Our electric yacht is 100% sustainable, emissions and noise free, making it climate safe, and Lake Taupo’s best sailing experience. We have been sailing to the iconic Maori Rock Carvings since 1982! This all-year-round activity offers relaxation, fun and adventure on the water, the Kiwi way. Get right up close to this culturally significant 46 foot (14m) high rock art. Excellent, amusing and current commentary on lake, the volcanics and the carvings. Free refreshments including tea, coffee, hot chocolate and mulled wine (winter only). We are licenced but you are welcome to bring your own. BYO Swimming is encouraged. Sail Barbary is the only boat in Taupo rated 'Qualmark Gold' by Tourism NZ under the 'sustainable business' category.

Explore Lake Taupo as you kayak to the Maori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay. You will start your half day tour from the sheltered waters of Acacia Bay before paddling out on the lake below native bush, past steep cliffs and mini inlets that can only harbor a kayak. The experienced guide will explain the carving's cultural significance to the lake and surrounding areas while you float beneath them. On the way back stop for gourmet refreshments and can take the opportunity to swim or go for a rock jumping into the clear waters of the beautiful lake. If the breeze comes up, you can raft your kayaks together and sail back – bliss! Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Departure time is at 8:30am and 1:30pm in summer and 10:00am and 1:30pm in winter from our base in Acacia Bay. Allow approx 4 hours per trip (3 hours on the water). 

Cruise Great Lake Taupo in style and comfort on our luxury catamaran Tiua. Tiua brings smooth sailing to effortless entertaining, as a high-end charter vessel. She blends her original character and style with the latest comfort and class. Tiua is the only boat on Lake Taupo which combines the relaxing feeling of an eco friendly sailing experience with the comfort of being able to go out in any weather and keep customers out of rain and the cold with her spacious saloon and covered cockpit. [Tee-ua] Māori 1. (verb) To move with the wind Synonyms – to relax and immerse oneself in nature and luxury with family and friends.

Experience the beauty of a scenic sailing tour to the Māori Rock Carvings, one of the most extraordinary contemporary carvings in the world. Only view-able from the water, the likeness of Ngātoroirangi towers 14-meters above Lake Taupō, surrounded by over 40 smaller carvings.. Escape from hectic life for a while and enjoy the breathtaking views around. Relax on our charter yacht “Kindred Spirit” and enjoy the superior comfort with a large deck space. Listen to our experienced skippers and learn about the history of the lake. Give the crew a hand hoisting the sails and take a turn on the wheel or just snuggle under some blankets and enjoy the wide selection of drinks. Kindred Spirit sails under full sails as much as possible or gently meanders, when it is truly calm, by a quite inboard diesel engine. Take a dip and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the largest freshwater lake in Australasia (weather dependent).

Looking for exciting things to do while visiting Taupo? Then look no further! Parasailing is one of New Zealand’s top-rated activities and with us, you’re in great hands. Want to fly solo or with a friend or two? No problem as long as you’re over 70 kgs. You can fly up to 1000 feet for stunning views of Lake Taupo. All flights are 12 minutes long and come with an optional ‘freefall’ decent. Enjoy an optional refreshing dip in the clear lake waters with the Sky dip near the end of your flight. Rise into the air behind the boat and enjoy the peaceful silence of the skies. Take in the panoramic views of Lake Taupo and the tranquil waters below while you drift through the clouds.

Departing from Kinloch, our unique small group tours take you to discover some of the Hidden Gems of Lake Taupō only found in the remote Western Bays and only accessible by boat. Come away from the crowds and visit majestic rock faces, private beaches, crystal waters and waterfall visits.

Welcome to the heart of Tongariro National Park amongst our taonga treasured Volcanic Maunga Mountains Pihanga, Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu like nowhere else in the World. On Journey enjoy our learnings about Manaakitanga – caring & safety of visitors and Kaitiakitanga – guardianship to preserving life. Locals of Maōri descent born and raised in Turangi Tongariro providing a niche transport service to Aotearoa New Zealand’s known best one day adventure hike to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing with award winning experienced local transport services. Highly recommended from Visitor’s. Ensured safety and experience from our destination Turangi Taupō, World famously known for trout fishing, hiking, river rafting, geothermal hot pools, stays and a quint friendly environment. Shuttles & transfers are hiking self-guided and naturally has our Maōri blessings, FREE safety photography, FREE use of walking poles, and a FREE cold drink at the END. UNESCO Transport Operator Approved.

Choose between Waiotapu or Oarakei Korako geothermal areas for your first stop on this 7-hour day trip. Then see Huka Falls, Lake Taupo and the surrounding areas. Admission fees to the thermal area of your choice are included, but lunch is at your own expense. This guided small-group tour operates with a maximum of 11 passengers and includes pickup from your centrally located accommodation in Rotorua. Please note that this tour is not suitable for children under 2 years, as part of the group – It can be booked as a private group tour – please ask TripAdvisor/Viator to contact us for the custom price Guaranteed departure – Due to low numbers and sustained losses caused by Covid 19, until further notice we will need a minimum of 2 people (or price equivalent) to run tours

Enjoy incredible views from coast to coast of the North Island of New Zealand. Jump from 12,000 with 40 seconds of freefall! Capture your skydive with our high quality camera options, all of which will be explained on your arrival. Friends and family are welcome to watch, with plenty of room at the drop zone for spectators. Make your skydive one to remember with Taupo Tandem Skydiving, New Zealand's original drop zone. Since 1992 we've jumped over 300,000 people!

Download a vibrantly-narrated mp3 audio guide combined with a map detailing the area of your tour. Enjoy the action packed city of Taupo on this self-guided audio tour of the city. You will see how the stunning lake city of Taupo has gently transformed by taking you on a journey which will highlight its geothermal history and the massive lake on which it sits where water based and adrenaline activities keep many tourists busy.

Western Bay Scenic 2 Day Mountain Biking Tour Ride the Great Lake Trail on this 2-day Grade 3 mountain biking tour, a perfect way to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Great Lake Taupo region. You will be biking the 19.5 km Kawakawa section (Orakau & K2K) on Day 1 and the 21km W2K section on Day 2. The Great Lake Trail is one of the most popular trails of the New Zealand Cycle Trail network. You will be riding along undulating pumice trails through native forest and wetlands, where the landscape unfolds to reveal stunning views across the water to the majestic volcanic mountains of the Tongariro National Park. Dramatic scenery combines with serene lake views, powerful waterfalls, native bird song and incredible trail quality to deliver an unforgettable experience.

Glide your kayak over Lake Taupo's crystal clear waters as you paddle to the awe-inspiring Maori Rock Carvings on this 4-hour guided tour.  Soak in the view across the Lake to 3 live volcano's while you hear the history of the carvings, various Maori legends and facts of the local area from your guide before enjoying rock jumps and a swim in Australasia's largest freshwater Lake. A must-do while in Taupo!

This tour is Small Group Tour from Auckland We Will explore the Rotorua & Taupo Highlight Spot We visit several of North Island's highlight spots, including Waiotapu Thermal Park & Huka Falls & Lake Taupo & Red wood Forest & Lake Rotorua. We're providing a tour that will become the most memorable and precious memory in New Zealand. Let's discover beautiful Rotorua & Taupo city with your own guide!! (We can flex the schedule based on your needs. Please contact us.) Minimum required is Tour : 2 people

A journey from Auckland’s bustling cityscape to Taupō’s scenic lakes on a luxury private tour will lead you to marvel at the breath-taking geothermal scenery, stunning waterfalls, and World Heritage-listed Forest reserves. Located in the centre of New Zealand’s North Island lies the largest freshwater lake in Australasia, Lake Taupo, is also a super volcano! Get right up close to explore lake Taupō on an eco-friendly scenic cruise around the Western Bays of the Lake to see the huge Māori rock carving at Mine Bay. Investigate the hidden bays, beautiful coastline and feel the thrill of cascading waterfalls at Huka falls. Be prepared to have your taste buds tingling, with the chance to try an array of exotic artisan honeys in a special tasting room.

Highlight Rotorua & Taupo day tour from Auckland This tour is ideal for Individual , couples , families ,and friends for private tour. Not with other group or people. Take the opportunity to highlight of New zealand with Private day tour!! Explore the geothermal magical of Rotorua and Taupo with own your private guide. You see the geysers and town with wonderful buildings or pursue adventure in the Redwood forest in Rotorua and Taupo with New Zealand's largest lake. Don't miss explore otherworldly geothermal area in the world. This tour is ideal for families, couples and friends, small groups visiting for the first time in New zealand. We can provide to flex the schedule base on your needs and meals with what your dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.) If you have any questions and requests please let us know. Minimum required for this tour : 2 people

Visit and experience the heart of New Zealand's North Island… Lake Taupo is not only home to one of New Zealand's greatest waterfalls but also the biggest lake! Whether it's the stunning landscape or the various activities – Lake Taupo is one New Zealand's must do's!! The Great Lake Tour can be altered in any way to fit your needs! Please be aware that this is a booking request. We will be in touch as soon as possible following your booking time to confirm your tour. This is to allow for customisations and ensuring you get the best out of your desired tour. After we have confirmed your booking, we also confirm a final tour price. This can be paid in-person or simply by bank transfer. We will take away the $5.00 booking fee which you have paid to make this booking.

Enjoy the surreal landscapes and mysterious appeal of a majestic and active geothermal site on this private day tour from Auckland on a luxurious vehicle. Soak in hot steam, marvel at boiling mud pools at one of New Zealand’s most impressive geothermal wonderlands. Look for the luminous green waters of the ominously named Devil’s Bath. Experience a land of fire and ice, Lake Taupō, a stunning natural cauldron, ringed by beautiful snow-capped mountains, and feel the thrill of cascading waterfalls at Huka falls. Be prepared to have your taste buds tingling, with the chance to try an array of exotic artisan honeys in a special tasting room.

Maori Rock Carvings Package Our Great Lake Taupo Mountain Bike and Kayak Package is without a doubt the best way to experience the spectacular scenery by bike from the Great Lake Trail, and view the amazing Maori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay by water. You will meet us at our base in Acacia Bay, where we will load your bike then set off by road to Kinloch to ride the W2K (Kinloch to Whakaipo Bay) section of the Great Lake Trail. Your ride will take approximately 2 – 2.5 hours, ending at the beautiful Whakaipo Bay where you gourmet lunch awaits you. After lunch, you will head down to the crystal clear waters of Lake Taupo to begin your kayak trip to the famous Maori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay. Allow up to 8 hours for this trip.