Top Taupo Water Tours

Set sail onto Lake Taupo aboard a 53ft luxury catamaran. Dive into the deep-blue crystal waters, making use of the complimentary snorkeling equipment, before hopping back on board to investigate the stunning Māori rock carvings on the cliff faces that circle the lake, only viewable from the water. Then enjoy a drink while snuggling into the onboard beanbags before heading back to shore.

Discover the stunning Māori Rock Carvings on Lake Taupō aboard a 100% electric yacht. This eco-friendly cruise offers a unique blend of relaxation and cultural storytelling, perfect for all types of travelers. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere where you can bring your own food and drinks while soaking up the sun, swimming, or even taking the helm. Engage with knowledgeable crew members as they share tales of Taupō’s volcanic landscape and Māori heritage, ensuring a memorable experience. Whether you're seeking a scenic day trip or a sunset cocktail cruise, Sail Barbary provides an unforgettable connection to nature and culture. Explore the iconic 14-meter Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings, accessible only by water Enjoy a relaxed cruise with BYO food and drinks, plus complimentary drinks on evening sails Engage in cultural storytelling from the enthusiastic crew about local legends and history Experience sustainable sailing on a 100% electric yacht, perfect for eco-conscious travelers

Carved in the 1970s by one of Aotearoa’s master Māori carvers, the Mine Bay rock carvings are a striking Taupō attraction. They’re also impossible to access on foot, so hop on board a charming replica steamboat and take a scenic cruise out to the carvings instead. Learn all about the history and the myths behind the carvings from your steamboat crew, and along the way enjoy pristine views of Lake Taupō and beyond, including the nearby volcanoes Tongariro, Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe.

Take a break from the busy-ness of sightseeing and enjoy a couple of hours on the water aboard a classical sailing yacht. Sail on Lake Taupō, admiring mountain views and the Māori Rock Carvings, which can only be seen from the water. If the weather’s good, you can swim or simply sit on the deck and relax with a blanket to keep you warm.

Uncover the beauty of Lake Taupō as you sail to the iconic 14-metre Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings, uniquely accessible only by water. Experience a laid-back atmosphere where you can bring your own food and drinks while enjoying engaging stories about the lake's rich history from the crew. With our 100% electric yacht, enjoy a serene sailing experience free from engine noise and fumes. Whether you're looking to swim, relax, or take the helm, this eco-friendly adventure offers something for everyone, making it perfect for families and friends alike. - Daily electric cruises to the stunning Māori Rock Carvings - BYO food and drinks with a Bluetooth sound system on board - Enjoy complimentary drinks on evening cruises - Swim stops available, weather permitting, with friendly crew assistance

Spin and speed your way to Huka Falls during a thrilling jet boat ride on the Waikato River. Hold on tight as you zip over the crystal-clear waters, past rugged cliffs and native bush on New Zealand's longest river. Feel the power of the thundering waterfall up close as it blasts into the turbulent pool.

Zoom along the Waikato River on a jet boat during a speedy, thrilling excursion. With a guide in the lead providing commentary on the local sights, surf the Nga Awapurua Rapids, shoot through canyons, and admire the purity of the clear waters. This small-group tour can accommodate 11 people per boat.

Experience the thrill of New Zealand’s volcanic landscapes on a self-guided tour of the Orakei Korako geothermal area. Follow the 1.5-mile (2.5km) boardwalk around the park and stop to admire startling silica terraces, peer into bubbling mud pools and watch hissing geysers. Be sure not to miss the Ruatapu Cave, one of only two geothermal caves in the world and home to a mesmerizing thermal mirror pool.

Imagine gliding across a glass-like lake, surrounded by native forest with nothing but the sound of your paddle dipping into the water and bird song. This is the experience of The Hidden Lake kayak tour. We'll take you on a journey to Taupō’s secret sanctuary, a peaceful and untouched place where the beauty of nature takes centre stage. From the intriguing sight of a sunken forest beneath the water to the secluded tranquillity of a hidden canyon, this is more than a tour—it's an escape. The sheltered location means this peaceful and unforgettable adventure can be enjoyed in any weather. Tour Highlights: Paddle over the mysterious sunken forest Explore hidden waterways and the beautiful canyon Enjoy close encounters with native birdlife Perfect for families, beginners, and nature lovers Runs year-round in most weather conditions

Kayak down the beautiful crystal-clear waters of the Waikato River on this small two hour guided kayaking tour. Drift path various islands, nature reserves, and locations of interests and soak in the natural geothermal hot pools. This tour will let you uniquely experience the river and its surroundings.

Take in the scenery of Lake Taupo during this half-day kayaking tour from Taupo. After a brief paddling lesson, set out in your kayak from Jerusalem Bay. Follow your guide along the shoreline of New Zealand’s largest lake to rock cliffs where you can see Maori carvings. Stop at a scenic spot for snacks and an optional swim on a tour that is suitable for all levels of experience.

Departing from Kinloch, our unique small group tours take you to discover some of the Hidden Gems of Lake Taupō only found in the remote Western Bays and only accessible by boat. Come away from the crowds and visit majestic rock faces, private beaches, crystal waters and waterfall visits.

Enjoy Lake Taupo in an active yet relaxing way with a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rental. You can set off across the water at your own pace, paddling along the shore or checking out sights such as the Maori Rock Carvings.

Enjoy a fun-filled day on Lake Taupō with Kakariki Private Boat Charters. Perfect for any occasion, this 12-meter catamaran accommodates up to 24 passengers. Bring your own drinks or choose from a fully licensed bar, with BBQ and catering options available. Whether you're here for a stag do, hens party, or family gathering, you can swim, fish, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere on board. Set your own pace and create unforgettable memories on the water. - Up to 24 guests on the spacious Kakariki catamaran - Flexible BYO or licensed bar, with BBQ & catering options - Activities include swimming, biscuit towing, and fishing - Ideal for celebrations, corporate events, and family outings