Step aboard Ernest Kemp Cruises for a two-hour journey to Lake Taupō’s iconic Maori Rock Carvings. Enjoy expert narration, comfortable seating, and a welcoming atmosphere for families and dogs alike.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
No specific fitness level required; easy, relaxed boating experience suitable for all ages.
Wildlife
History
The Maori Rock Carvings were crafted between 1976 and 1980 by Matahi Whakataka Brightwell and his team, reflecting deep indigenous heritage and acknowledging New Zealand’s cultural diversity with Celtic motifs.
Conservation
Ernest Kemp Cruises emphasizes sustainable practices to protect Lake Taupō’s environment, promoting responsible boating and waste management to preserve water clarity and wildlife habitats.
Ernest Kemp Cruises
Step aboard Ernest Kemp Cruises for a two-hour journey to Lake Taupō’s iconic Maori Rock Carvings. Enjoy expert narration, comfortable seating, and a welcoming atmosphere for families and dogs alike.
Ernest Kemp Cruises operates from Taupō on New Zealand’s Lake Taupo, offering guided sightseeing cruises to the renowned Maori Rock Carvings at Acacia Bay. The company runs daily cruises, evening cocktail cruises, and express 1.5-hour trips that highlight the 14‑metre carvings created by local master carver Matahi Whakataka Brightwell. Each cruise provides informative commentary about Maori history, geology, and local landmarks, delivered by experienced crew who prioritise safety and visitor experience.
Vessels feature comfortable seating, family-friendly amenities, and a licensed bar for beverages during the voyage. Ernest Kemp Cruises maintains a dog-friendly policy on board, making the trips accessible for travellers who bring well-behaved pets. The company emphasises punctual departures from Taupō and clear booking information to reduce uncertainty for visitors.
Ernest Kemp Cruises works with local communities and cultural experts to ensure respectful presentation of the Maori Rock Carvings and surrounding heritage. Safety equipment is kept up to regulatory standards, and crew members are trained in passenger care and emergency procedures. Customers receive sightlines to the carvings and opportunities for photography without needing to disembark.
Booking options include timed daily sailings, a relaxed evening cocktail experience, and a condensed express cruise for shorter schedules. Clear pricing, visible inclusions, and the combination of cultural commentary, scenic lake views, and practical amenities make Ernest Kemp Cruises a reliable operator for visitors seeking a well-organised Lake Taupo sightseeing experience. Bookings are available online and through local visitor centres, and staff provide clear safety briefings and accessibility information on request, and multilingual support.
Tours Offered
Daily & Evening
Daily, evening, and express options
Departure
Taupō
Departures from Taupō harbour
Onboard Bar
Licensed Bar
Beverages available during cruises
Pet Policy
Dog-friendly
Well-behaved dogs allowed onboard
Reserve daily, evening, or express seats to the Maori Rock Carvings — licensed bar, family-friendly seating, and dog-friendly policy ensure a comfortable cruise.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Check in at Taupō Marina at least 10–15 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Bring Sun Protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat will keep you comfortable on the open deck during sunny days.
Dress in Layers
Lake Taupō’s weather can shift quickly; a light jacket or sweater is recommended, especially outside seating areas.
Prepare for Possible Swimming
During summer, swimming is allowed if conditions permit—bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to take a dip.
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from glare reflecting off Lake Taupō’s surface.
summer
Light Jacket or Sweater
Layering helps manage the lake’s shifting temperatures, especially on the open deck.
fall
Camera
Capture detailed shots of the Maori Rock Carvings and sweeping lake vistas.
Swimwear & Towel
Bring these if you plan to swim from the boat when conditions allow.
summer