Lake Taupō: Māori Rock Carvings Cruise & Pizza on Ernest Kemp

Summary

Lake Taupō cruise to Māori carvings with live stories, pizza and a swim

You’ll board Ernest Kemp’s classic steamboat for a relaxed cruise across Lake Taupō to see the impressive Māori Rock Carvings up close. Enjoy lively stories from your local skipper, complimentary drinks and cookies, plus pizza and wine if you pick the evening trip. There’s time for swimming if you’re brave — or just soak up those quiet moments on deck as Taupō drifts by.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the boat to look like something out of an old movie — Ernest Kemp’s got this vintage steamboat vibe that makes you feel like you’re in on a local secret. We set off from Taupō’s little harbor, a bit of wind but still warm enough for shorts. The lake was that kind of blue that doesn’t really show up in photos. Our skipper (I think his name was Mark?) started chatting straight away, not reading from a script or anything — just telling stories about the lake and the people who’ve lived here forever. Someone’s dog barked at the ducks and everyone laughed.

The main thing is the Māori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay. I’d seen pictures but seeing them up close from the water is different — they’re huge, way bigger than you expect, and there’s all these details you can’t spot unless you’re right there. Mark slowed down so we could get photos and explained what some of the carvings mean; I tried to repeat one of the names and definitely butchered it (he just grinned). There was this quiet moment where nobody said much — just water lapping against the boat and a whiff of coffee from inside. Kind of peaceful, honestly.

We had free tea, coffee, hot chocolate (I went for that — still tastes like childhood) and cookies while drifting back toward town. If you do the 5pm cruise, they bring out pizza and pour wine or beer — it felt more like hanging out with friends than being on a “tour.” Someone even jumped in for a swim off the side; I chickened out but maybe next time. Free wifi too but I barely touched my phone except for photos. It’s only about 90 minutes or so but somehow feels longer in a good way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Lake Taupō Maori Rock Carvings Cruise

• Board Ernest Kemp Cruises vessel
• Enjoy complimentary hot beverages
• Listen to live commentary on lake history
• View Maori Rock Carvings
• Take photos from inside and outside seating
• Relax and enjoy free WiFi onboard
• Optional swim in lake (summer months)
• Disembark after 90-120 minute cruise

Top questions

How long does the Lake Taupō Māori Rock Carvings cruise last?

The cruise lasts between 90 to 120 minutes depending on conditions.

Is food included on the Ernest Kemp cruise?

Complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cookies are included; pizza is served on the 5pm cocktail cruise along with wine or beer.

Can I swim during the Lake Taupō cruise?

Yes, in summer months there may be time for a swim if conditions allow—bring a towel just in case.

Are dogs allowed on board Ernest Kemp?

Well-behaved dogs are welcome on board.

Is there live commentary during the cruise?

Yes, your skipper and crew provide live commentary about Lake Taupō and its history.

Does the tour include WiFi?

Yes, free WiFi is available onboard throughout your scenic cruise.

Where does the Lake Taupō Māori Rock Carvings cruise depart from?

The cruise departs from Taupō’s harbor area; public transport options are nearby.

What’s included

Your day includes a scenic Lake Taupō cruise aboard Ernest Kemp with live local commentary about Māori culture and history, complimentary tea, coffee or hot chocolate with cookies (and pizza plus drinks if you choose the evening trip), free WiFi throughout, indoor/outdoor seating options, plus time for swimming if weather allows before returning to shore.