On the sheltered western shore of Lake Taupō, a 14-metre carved figure rises from the cliff face just above the waterline — Ngātoroirangi, the great Polynesian navigator and tohunga (priest) who is said to have brought the geothermal fire of Tongariro to the central North Island. The Mine Bay Māori rock carvings are one of the most striking contemporary Māori artworks in New Zealand, and can only be reached by boat — a detail that adds to the experience of visiting.
Practical Information
| Location | Mine Bay, Lake Taupō — western shore, accessible by boat only |
| Access | Boat cruise or guided kayak — no land access |
| Boat cruise price | From $59 (Chris Jolly Outdoors); Ernest Kemp Cruises also daily |
| Kayak tour | ~4 hours guided; offered daily by Canoe & Kayak Taupō and Taupō Kayaking Adventures |
| Departure point | Taupō Boat Harbour, Redoubt Street — Chris Jolly at Berth 4, Ernest Kemp at Berth 2 |
About the Carvings
The carvings were created by Māori artist Matahi Brightwell, who worked on the cliff face over a period of years with the blessing and commission of Ngāti Tūwharetoa — the iwi whose ancestral territory encompasses Lake Taupō (Taupō-nui-a-Tia). Brightwell carved the images directly into the rock using traditional motifs alongside contemporary technique, and the work took over a decade to complete.
The central figure is Ngātoroirangi, depicted at 14 metres tall, rising from the water with carved detail visible across the face and chest. Flanking figures and decorative elements complete the composition. The carvings sit just above the lake surface, and at close range the scale and detail are striking — the face, in particular, is finely worked in traditional tā moko style.
How to Visit
Boat cruise: The easiest option for most visitors. Chris Jolly Outdoors runs a daily morning scenic cruise from $59 that stops at the carvings with extended viewing time and educational commentary. Ernest Kemp Cruises also departs daily from the marina — four times a day in summer, twice in winter. Both depart from the Taupō Boat Harbour on Redoubt Street; allow 15 minutes before departure to be aboard.
Guided kayak: A more immersive option — guided tours run daily with no experience required and all equipment supplied. The paddle to Mine Bay takes about 45 minutes each way, and getting close to the carvings from water level gives a different perspective to the boat cruises. Operators include Canoe & Kayak Taupō (tours ~4 hours total).
What Visitors Say
“Seeing Ngātoroirangi from the water is genuinely moving — the scale catches you off guard. The commentary about who commissioned the work and what the figure represents makes it more than just a photo stop.” — visitor review, New Zealand
Where to Learn More
Chris Jolly Outdoors — Māori Rock Carvings Cruises
Cruise timetables, prices and booking for the daily scenic cruise to Mine Bay.
Ernest Kemp Cruises — Māori Rock Carvings
History of the carvings and details on the Ernest Kemp cruise schedule and booking.
Canoe & Kayak Taupō — Māori Rock Carvings Kayak Tour
Guided kayak tour details, departure times and what to expect on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you visit the Mine Bay rock carvings without a boat?
No — there is no land access to Mine Bay. A boat cruise or guided kayak is the only way to see the carvings.
How much does it cost to see the Māori rock carvings?
Boat cruises start from $59 per adult with Chris Jolly Outdoors. Ernest Kemp Cruises prices are similar. Guided kayak tours vary — check with operators directly for current pricing.
Who made the Mine Bay carvings?
Māori artist Matahi Brightwell, working under commission from Ngāti Tūwharetoa, carved the rock face over a period of years. The carvings were completed in the 1980s.
How tall is the Ngātoroirangi carving?
The central figure is 14 metres tall — roughly four storeys high.
What is the best way to see the carvings — boat or kayak?
Both offer a good experience. Boat cruises are faster and include commentary, making them ideal for families or those short on time. Kayaking gets you right to water level at the base of the cliff and offers a more immersive experience.
See also: Lake Taupō · Taupō Lakefront Reserve