Taupo's landscape is steeped in Māori legend. The imprint here is powerful and undeniable. While Taupo might lure you here in search of action and activity, make sure you find time to slow down and get to know the people who helped shape this land.

Māori culture has deep roots; thoroughly enjoy getting immersed in traditional activities. Dine like a king on food you helped prepare the Māori way or discover the magic of a traditional massage. Explore historic sites with far-reaching views. Embark on watery adventures to the Mine Bay Māori rock carvings on Lake Taupo. Learn or at least watch the world-famous Ka Mate haka.

Māori Historic Sites

• Visit Opotaka, a historical Māori pa site (fortified village) on the shores of Lake Rotoaira, where the life, traditions and history of a real Māori settlement come to life.
• Dive into history at the Te Pōrere Redoubt, the site where the last major engagement of the New Zealand Wars was fought in 1869.
• Lake Taupo, the Tongariro River and the landscape of Taupo are steeped in ancient Māori legend and history. You'll see them through different eyes when you discover this important ancestry.

Māori Traditions

• The Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa combine many of the wonders of Māori culture, from traditional dancing to massage.
• Learn pre-European cooking skills as you prepare and then enjoy the fruits of your labour at a traditional Māori feast.
• To really understand the traditions of the local Māori tribe, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, join a guided tour and discover fascinating insights into Māori life and culture.

Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings

• The spectacular 10-metre-tall rock carving is one of the most astounding sights in all of the North Island. It's accessible only by water, but the journey is as rewarding as the destination.
• To get close to the formidable carving, created in 1980 by one of the last traditional marae-taught carvers, paddle over the clear lake waters on a kayak.
• Hop aboard a sailboat from Taupo Boat Harbour, a luxurious way to see the lake and appreciate the artistry of the carvings.

Created in partnership with Destination Great Lake Taupo