Discovering Mysterious Māori Rock Art in the Lake & A Unique Yacht Adventure on New Zealand’s Lake Taupo

▲ Lake Taupo is the largest freshwater lake in New Zealand.

Reported and photographed by Chen Hanyin / New Zealand

There's no better way to enjoy a pure and natural New Zealand holiday than taking it easy. Nestled in the heart of the North Island, Lake Taupo attracts numerous visitors each year who come to relax and unwind. Aside from its breathtaking lake scenery, Lake Taupo is also globally recognized as one of the best trout fishing destinations. Set off on a yacht and enjoy an aristocratic-style leisurely afternoon.

▲ Embark on a yacht journey to admire the beauty of Lake Taupo and spend a relaxing afternoon.

Thousands of years ago, the Oruanui volcanic eruption left a massive crater on the Earth's surface, which today forms New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake. In its crystal-clear waters, schools of trout swim freely, making it a popular spot for anglers. Every summer, the entire lake transforms into a water paradise where activities such as boating, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and jet skiing can be enjoyed.

▲ Huge, plump, and delicious trout.

Renting a yacht to cruise around Lake Taupo is the most relaxing and enjoyable way to explore. You can take in the most stunning lakeside landscapes New Zealand has to offer. Stop the boat right in the middle of the lake, drop your bait, and wait quietly for a catch. Close your eyes, feel the breeze, and enjoy a moment of peace. Fishing is all about luck — the thrill and sense of accomplishment when you feel the rod tug and finally pull up your catch is indescribable. The fish you catch will be prepared on the spot by the captain-chef, and you can enjoy a fresh sashimi meal right on the yacht.

▲ Freshly caught fish prepared into sashimi on the spot.

▲ It can be made into a sashimi meal or even barbecued on the boat.

▲ Enjoy a lavish yacht feast on board.

After a hearty meal, set off to discover mysterious Māori stone carvings. On the cliffs of Mine Bay stands a towering rock art piece over 10 meters high. Legend has it that in the 1970s, carver Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell came here in 1976, climbed down from above, and spent four years completing this masterpiece. The traditional Māori facial tattoo designs symbolize Māori culture and were his gift to Lake Taupo, the homeland of his mother. In addition to the cliff carvings, there are dinosaur-like sculptures nearby — in reality, they depict native New Zealand lizard species, standing guard over the sacred murals like Chinese stone lions, protecting the serene beauty of Lake Taupo that must not be spoiled.

▲ Ancient Māori traditional facial tattoo rock art at Mine Bay — the left symbolizes female, the right symbolizes male.

▲ The identity of the guardian figure is debated — some say it’s a dinosaur, others a crocodile. Locals claim it’s an enlarged version of a native New Zealand lizard.

▲ Feed wild mallard ducks with bread, and they’ll fly over to snatch it — a truly amusing sight.