Hidden Lake Hinemaiaia Kayak Tour – Taupō’s Secret Gem
Discover Taupō’s best-kept secret — Hidden Lake Hinemaiaia, a serene and secluded lake surrounded by lush native bush and alive with bird song.
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through native forest before launching into crystal-clear waters above a sunken forest. Glide across this tranquil lake, explore sheltered byways, and paddle into a hidden canyon where nature feels untouched.
This experience is stunning in all weather — peaceful, sheltered, and unforgettable no matter the conditions.
Please note we can also run customised trips, tours and courses on demand.
Please contact us directly on 07 378 1003.
Tour Details
The tour is approx. 2.5 hrs on the water (4hrs return trip including transport) depending on group size.
We start and finish at the store (54 Spa Rd, Taupo) so you can leave your valuables in a secure locked area.
This tour is suitable for children 10yrs+ (children must share a double kayak with an adult).
Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour is scheduled to depart.
Tours run throughout the year in fair weather conditions.
No experience necessary.
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
Bookings essential.
Tour Details
The tour is approx. 2.5 hrs on the water (4hrs return trip including transport) depending on group size.
We start and finish at the store (54 Spa Rd, Taupo) so you can leave your valuables in a secure locked area.
This tour is suitable for children 10yrs+ (each child must be accompanied by an adult).
Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour is scheduled to depart.
Tours run throughout the year in fair weather conditions.
No experience necessary.
Bookings essential.
What’s Included?
Fully guided by qualified, friendly and knowledgable kayak instructors.
All kayaking and safety equipment – including waterproof jackets
All tuition
Complimentary refreshments
Complimentary images of your tour
Departure Times
Please select book now for up-to-date departure times or call us on +64 7 378 1003
From our gallery
Had a fab morning out with Rob who was full of local knowledge. Relatively smooth paddle and great views of the carvings. Only way to see them! Would highly recommend.
Natasha
I went for a half day kayak tour to the Maori carvings. The day was excellent and the weather sunny with nice views of Mt. Doom and the guide was willing to share all his knowledge of the places. A great experience!
Alessio
Maori Rock Carving kayak tour with George was a great few hours out on Lake Taupo. George gave us a comprehensive brief before we started and kept a good pace for all of us to follow. He was very knowledgeable about the lake, legends and the carving itself. Stopped for coffee and biscuits on the way back along with a refreshing swim. All in all a great way to spend a few hours.Would recommend!
Steve
Our trip to the Māori Carbings was fantastic! Eloise was a fabulous guide - very knowledgeable and friendly and made our experience incredibly enjoyable. We are not experienced kayakers but Eloise made sure we knew what to do and we felt very comfortable the whole time. Would absolutely recommend this trip to anyone visiting Taupo :)
Taylerb
Great time! Great experience! The kayaking bit was really fun and the carvings are awesome! Great guide, and nice little resting stop with hot drinks and biscuits!
Alexak
Great experience kayaking out to the Maori carving on Lake Taupo, we enjoyed the challenge to get there and back, well worth it!
Gail
5 Star Experience. Had the most unreal time, we were looked after incredibly well and had the best experience. Our guide was beyond amazing too, Thank you so much! ❤️