Lake Taupo is located in the North Island of New Zealand. This lake is massive as its one of the world’s largest freshwater volcanic craters. Since this lake is so large, what better way to explore it than by boat! Plus the well-known Maori Rock Carvings are only accessible by boat (or Kayak) and those are a must-see. We were on a road trip through the North Island and decided to spend some time on Lake Taupo. It wasn’t warm enough for swimming or water sports so we were looking for another option. We happened to stumble upon the Ernest Kemp boat cruises and they didn’t disappoint!
What’s Included:
- Live commentary
- Complimentary tea, coffee, and cookies
- There is a bar for those who also want adult beverages!
- Indoor and outdoor seating
- Bathrooms (that’s always a plus on a boat)
- Free Wifi (this was great for us as we did not have a phone plan haha)
- Swimming (if the weather is great, they will let you swim! Let me tell ya, New Zealand has some of the most refreshing and clean water I have ever been in, so if you get the chance, jump in!
- Side note: the cruise we took also included drinks and pizza, but I no longer see that option on their website, but doesn’t hurt to ask for this option when booking!
What to Bring:
- Camera
- Swimsuit and towel (weather permitting)
- Extra clothes (in case you do swim!)
- Sunglasses
- Jacket (for the windy or chilly days)
- Money
- Sunscreen
- Your dog! (yes you read that correctly, if your dog is well behaved, they don’t mind you brining your furry friend aboard)
The Cruise:
If it is a nice day outside, I highly suggest getting a seat outside! When you leave the dock you get a gorgeous view of the lake along with a mountain backdrop. Have your camera ready! As you make your way to the Maori Rock Carvings grab a drink and take in the views. Once you arrive at the rock carvings, you won’t believe your eyes. These carvings have become one of the North Island’s largest tourist attractions and I now understand why. The carvings are enormous and so intricate! The carvings took 4 years to sculpt and was completed in 1980. A little fun fact for you, the artist along with his team wore nothing but safety goggles and speedos (talk about a liberating work uniform!). For a more in depth information on the full meaning of this wonderful piece of art, click here. After seeing the carvings you continue to cruise through Lake Taupo and start to make your way back. Be sure to try to feed the ducks, they come soaring towards the boat and will take the food right from your hands! This boat cruise caters to all types, whether you’re traveling solo, as a family, or as a couple! It’s great for all ages. It is the perfect way to explore the lake, see the carvings, relax, and meet new people!
If you are traveling through New Zealand be sure to check out my other blogs on the top 10 things to do in Queenstown and a fun brewery tour! New Zealand is by far one of the most magnificent and beautiful places on Earth!
