6 Best Kayak And Canoe Tours In Taupo

Water adventures in Taupo deliver excellent value with several standout tours worth your time and money. The guided Waikato River experience packs plenty into two hours, letting you paddle past thermal pools and native bush at a comfortable pace. My favorite spot is the Maori Rock Carvings tour – these towering lake sculptures are best seen up close by kayak, and the four-hour journey gives you plenty of time to soak in the views and hear the fascinating cultural stories.

For active travelers, combining some paddling with a dip in natural hot springs along the Waikato River can’t be beat. The half-day Maori carvings tour by kayak particularly impresses with its mix of exercise and cultural discovery. Stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Taupo offers a fine alternative for those seeking something different.

Let’s explore the top water tours that showcase the best of Taupo’s remarkable waterways.

Key Points

• The Waikato River Guided Kayak Trip offers a 2-hour guided tour with a maximum group size of 7 for a personalized experience.
• The Maori Rock Carvings Kayaking Tour provides a 4-hour journey on Lake Taupo with views of Maori rock carvings, volcanoes, and opportunities for swimming and rock jumping.
• Kayak the Waikato River is a 2-hour adventure exploring forests, islands, swimming holes, and natural hot springs, suitable for families and those with limited mobility.
• The Half-Day Kayak to Maori Rock Carvings offers a personalized tour to the Maori carvings on Lake Taupo, with a maximum group size of 16 travelers.
• Stand Up Paddle Board Hire on Lake Taupo allows for a 4-hour self-guided experience, with a maximum of 2 travelers per hire and moderate fitness required.

2-Hour Waikato River Guided Kayak Trip From Taupo

A 2-hour guided kayaking tour on the Waikato River in Taupo, New Zealand, provides visitors with a tranquil and picturesque adventure.

Guests can paddle through crystal-clear waters, passing by islands, nature reserves, and geothermal hot pools. The tour is highly recommended, with 98% of travelers giving it a 4.9 out of 5 rating based on 146 reviews.

With a maximum of 7 travelers per tour, the experience offers a personalized touch. The tour includes a professional guide, all necessary equipment, and complimentary photos.

Participants must arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled departure and wear appropriate seasonal attire. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult, and a minimum booking of 4 people is required.

Read our full review: 2-Hour Waikato River Guided Kayak Trip From Taupo Review
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Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings Kayaking Tour

Gliding across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Taupo, visitors embark on a captivating 4-hour Maori Rock Carvings Kayaking Tour. Priced from $79.49 per person, the tour offers a chance to explore the area’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.

Guests paddle past the impressive Maori rock carvings, learning about their history from a knowledgeable guide. Along the way, they’ll enjoy views of three live volcanoes and local flora, with opportunities for swimming and rock jumping.

The tour includes all necessary equipment, hotel pickup and drop-off, and access to a Maori community for an additional fee. With a 5/5 rating based on 17 reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable kayaking experience.

Read our full review: Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings Kayaking Tour Review
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Kayak the Waikato River Taupo

Travelers embark on a 2-hour kayaking adventure down the serene Waikato River in Taupo, New Zealand.

They’ll explore forests, islands, swimming holes, the Taupo Bungy platform, and natural hot springs. This highly-recommended activity, with a 90% satisfaction rate, is accessible for families and those with limited mobility.

Guests can choose between single or double kayaks and receive professional guidance, safety gear, and refreshments. The tour departs from Gates Park, Rangatira Park, with the option of round-trip transportation.

Customer reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and ease of paddling, though one complaint arose about a no-show tour leading to a refund.

Read our full review: Kayak the Waikato River Taupo Review
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Half-Day Kayak to the Maori Rock Carvings in Lake Taupo

Set out on a captivating half-day kayak journey to the renowned Maori rock carvings on the serene waters of Lake Taupo.

Rated 4.8/5 from 92 reviews, this tour is recommended by 95% of travelers and boasts a Badge of Excellence.

Led by professional guides, you’ll enjoy top-quality equipment and refreshments while soaking in the stunning scenery.

With a maximum of 16 travelers, this small-group experience ensures personalized attention.

Whether you’re a beginner or experienced kayaker, you’ll marvel at the up-close views of the impressive Maori carvings, and may even have a chance to go for a swim.

This tour offers an unforgettable way to explore the natural beauty of Lake Taupo.

Read our full review: Half-Day Kayak to the Maori Rock Carvings in Lake Taupo Review
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The Maori Carvings Half Day Kayak

Paddling across the serene waters of Lake Taupo, the Maori Carvings Half Day Kayak tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to marvel at the impressive rock art created by the indigenous Maori people.

Rated 4.9 out of 5 with 99% traveler recommendation, this half-day adventure includes a paddling lesson, scenic views of volcanoes and birdlife, and a chance to learn about the cultural significance of the carvings.

Suitable for all experience levels, the tour provides snacks, equipment, and hotel pick-up/drop-off, making it an accessible and engaging way to explore the natural beauty and rich heritage of the region.

Read our full review: The Maori Carvings Half Day Kayak Review
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Stand Up Paddle Board Hire – Lake Taupo

For those seeking a leisurely way to explore the serene waters of Lake Taupo, the Stand Up Paddle Board Hire offers a unique opportunity.

Located in Taupo, New Zealand, this 4-hour activity allows a maximum of 2 travelers to paddle around the lake. Customers can meet at the Canoe and Kayak Taupo on Spa Road and return there once the activity ends.

While the GST is included, there’s a 7% Kaitiaki fee to support local environmental stewardship. Although the overall rating is 4.0, some customers expressed disappointment about the time needed to see Maori carvings.

Moderate physical fitness is required, and the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Read our full review: Stand Up Paddle Board Hire – Lake Taupo Review
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Sum Up

Taupo offers a variety of guided kayak and canoe tours, including trips to the Maori rock carvings on Lake Taupo. These tours provide an opportunity to explore the area’s natural beauty and learn about its rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely paddle or a more adventurous excursion, there’s a tour to suit your preferences.