Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings

The Ngatoroirangi Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings are one of New Zealand’s most unique contemporary works of art located on Lake Taupo. Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell carved these 33 feet high Maori designs in the late 1970s. He marked his ten-year training period with Maori elders with this significant carving which took four summers to finish. The rock carvings are only accessible by boat and you can take a sailing boat, scenic cruise, or go on a kayaking trip from Taupo Harbour.

Matahi carved a likeness of a visionary Maori navigator, Ngatoroirangi who guided the Te Arawa and Tuwharetoa tribes to Tapua a thousand years ago. He also carved Celtic designs to recognize the cross-cultural nature. Matahi and four others took years to finish the carvings which also depict tupuna (ancestors) and kaitiaki (guardians) which are important to the history of the local Maori tribe. It was his grandmother's wish and was later given as a gift to Taupo. Along with these rock alcove carvings, you can enjoy the clear blue waters of Lake Taupo and engage in sailing and boating activities.