BIKE: W2K trail (Kinloch to Whakaipo Bay) – 13 km, 2 to 2.5 hours. Grade 3
KAYAK: Whakaipo Bay to Acacia Bay – 3 to 4 hours

Our Maori Carvings Explorer package is without a doubt the best way to experience the spectacular scenery from the Great Lake Trail, and see the amazing Maori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay by water.

In one day, you will enjoy a leisurely 2-2.5 hour mountain-bike ride, and 4 hours kayaking on the crystal clear waters of Lake Taupo.

You will meet us at our base in Acacia Bay, where we will load your bike then set off by road to Kinloch, to ride W2K (Kinloch to Whakaipo Bay) section of the Great Lake Trail.

Trail

Starting at the Kinloch Domain, follow the markers around the marina and along the waterfront and then up a gully to Boojum Dell. The trail climbs steadily up through native bush and onto the headland, providing great views across the lake and back down into Kinloch. At the junction of the Headland Loop there is a toilet and a map.

From here you continue to ride down the undulating pumice trail through native bush towards Whakaipo Bay. There was no major importing of gravel into this track, the surface it just the way a real mountain bike track should be. Looping around some contours on the hillsides there are excellent views of the Lake and the Tongariro National Park to the south. Along the Great Lake Trail listen for native birds and wind in the bushes at one of the nice viewpoints. There are some great fast flowing sections on this part of the trail.

At the end of the track you will ride through the farmland, past paddocks of sheep and down towards Whakaipo Bay which is one of the last untouched public and farmed reserves left on the shores of Lake Taupo. This place is so rustic and raw, you will be speechless.

It here at Whakaipo Bay where you gourmet lunch will await you, either on the shores of the lake or amongst the rustic land. After lunch your guide will equip you, so we can set off on our kayaking leg. We will pass the historic Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay, be captivated by these striking carvings as your experienced guide will explain the carving’s cultural significance to the lake and surrounding areas while you float beneath them. Paddle below native bush, past steep cliffs and mini inlets as we paddle back to base as watching the crystal clear water as it unveils.

This trip can be run in the opposite direction too. A good climb still for less experienced or less fit riders that rewards you with everything you could want from a ride; great views, fast and flowing downhills and a workout!

Tours include:

  • Guide / Full instruction
  • Top quality kayaking equipment
  • Mountain bike and helmet
  • Gourmet lunch and refreshments
  • Transport to and from tracks – from our base
  • Note: Please refer to our Gear list tab on our website of what’s you need to bring and wear.

Time

  • 9.00am, allow 8 hours (6 hours riding / paddling time)

Price

  • NZD $365 per person for 1-2 people (minimum 2 people to run tour)
  • NZD $345 per person for 3 people
  • NZD $315 per person for 4 plus people

For E-Bikes an additional charge will apply – please call us on 0274801231 before booking

Single Person
For a single person, please call the office to see if the tour is running prior to booking

Base – Meeting Point / Starting Location:

  • Unit 2, 876 Acacia Bay Road, Acacia Bay, Taupo

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Gear list

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