THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Glide across the expanse of Lake Taupō aboard a luxury catamaran to see the Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings—14‑metre figures carved into volcanic cliffs that can only be viewed from the water. This 2½‑hour sail combines comfort, local storytelling, and photo‑perfect viewpoints.
Glide across the expanse of Lake Taupō aboard a luxury catamaran to see the Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings—14‑metre figures carved into volcanic cliffs that can only be viewed from the water. This 2½‑hour sail combines comfort, local storytelling, and photo‑perfect viewpoints.
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Operated by Taupo Sailing Adventures · Taupo, Waikato
The catamaran cuts a slow, deliberate line across Lake Taupō, Tiua’s twin hulls whispering through water that catches and throws back the southern sun. Onboard, blankets and beanbags soften the luxury; off the rail the lake stretches wide and flat, mountains pressing against the horizon like patient hosts. As you glide toward Mine Bay the air tightens with the scent of cool water and pine, and the first low cliffs slide into view—then the carvings, a 14‑metre portrait of Ngātoroirangi, loom out of the rock face, only readable from the water.
easy.
2–3 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; you must be able to step on/off a small gangway and remain seated on a moving vessel.
The whole experience runs about 2½ hours (150 minutes), including transit time, viewing the carvings, and any swim stops when conditions allow.
The skipper will position Tiua for the best view; close approaches depend on lake conditions and safety considerations, and the skipper has final discretion.
Yes—Tiua is wheelchair‑accessible and suitable for all fitness levels, though boarding requires stepping on a small gangway.
Trips may be canceled or rerouted for safety; you’ll receive a full refund if the operator cancels at least 24 hours prior, and the skipper may cancel on check‑in if conditions are unsafe.
Complimentary hot drinks and biscuits are offered on morning sails; midday and afternoon departures include complimentary beer, wine or non‑alcoholic drinks and light snacks as listed.
Yes—Tiua offers swim stops when weather and lake conditions permit, and it’s advertised as having the longest swim stop compared with other operators.
The Mine Bay carvings were created in the late 1970s by Matahi Whakataka‑Brightwell and a team of carvers; they are contemporary works that honor Māori navigation and ancestral presence on Taupō.
Lake Taupō’s clarity is prized—boaters are asked to wash gear between waterways to prevent pest spread and to avoid anchoring on fragile shorelines to protect native vegetation.
Taupo Sailing Adventures operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Book with Taupo Sailing Adventures
Book directly with Taupo Sailing Adventures for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
Reserve Now