The Māori rock carvings at Lake Taupō were created in the 1970s by artist Matahi Brightwell and depict Ngātoroirangi, a key ancestor who guided early Māori to the region. Carved into towering cliffs at Mine Bay, they blend traditional Māori storytelling with relatively modern craftsmanship, giving them both cultural and contemporary significance.

The carvings can only be reached by water, so the best way to see them is by kayak, which lets you get close to the cliffs and view the details from lake level. If you are not feeling like paddling, you can also opt for a sailing tour.