Richard Chen, owner of Manhattan Kayak Company
“This is just a quick thank you for letting me take my sister out today. It was quite an adventure for her, and getting to see the Carvings in the rain was actually pretty special. The water falling off the cliff formed a delicate curtain, and the surface chop was enough to let us surf the small waves at times. If you ever do make it to New York, do get in touch and we will show you a very different perspective on ‘urban kayaking’!”
Rachiex87 – Trip Advisor
Myself and my husband had an excellent day out with Jacob our guide. As a couple with some kayak experience it was nice that we were the only ones on our tour as we could get a little speed up, however if you are new to kayaking or never done it before they are very patient and the kayaks do have motors if your arms run out of steam! We learnt so much from Jacob about the area and the history and he was very approachable it felt like we were out kayaking with a friend. The other guide we met at the start and finish also seemed fun and approachable as well. I would recommend this to anyone regardless of kayaking experience, and will definitely come back!
Fearn – Trip Advisor
Another woman and I decided to go kayaking and booked this trip sort of last minute. Rob was our guide and did a great job. He was patient and kind. Also very informative on the area. He made the trip fun and informational. I can’t recommend Rob highly enough.
SusanCamperdown – Trip Advisor
We went to the Maori rock carving – half day trip. The lake was calm, views of the mountains beautiful, and the carvings themselves are well worth the paddle. Our guide Jacob was fun and knowledgeable. We’ve only kayaked a few times before but found it easy to get into the rhythm, and Jacob was very patient. We would thoroughly recommend this trip.
Aimee Siccama – Facebook
Extremely knowledgable guide, Rob. Great bloke to talk to and ask questions about not just Taupo but NZ in general. My fiancé and I were the only ones on this tour so extremely happy the company still went through with it as we have been cancelled before by other companies because ‘there wasn’t enough interest in the tour.’ Very happy with the whole tour, great owner operated business. Supporting locals is amazing! Couldn’t recommend this company more.
abcdefghi2016 – Trip Advisor
We (mum, 12, 11 & 10yo) had a great afternoon kayaking to the carvings. Rob and Ryan were terrific guide, with a huge sense of fun and experience .We shared a very welcomed lovely snack and hot drink over the lake together before heading back home. Thank goodness for the motorised kayaks. Absolutely memorable fun time and great exercise for us all
Henning J – Trip Advisor
Went for a float on the river with Jacob as guide. Ended up enjoying the kayaks, water and hot pools for much longer than the Our three-years old went in my kayak, while our boy of nine had his first trip going solo. Felt safe, taken well care of and it will make for good memories!
Highly recommended!
Kathryn Preston – Facebook
Fantastic afternoon. Ryan was a great guide and fun and interesting to talk with.
We were so lucky to have a beautiful day and we just loved every aspect of this afternoon out. Great company, great scenery, even the muffins were yummy! Thanks TKA!
Bonnie J – Trip Advisor
I was the only one who had booked that morning, but still got to go out onto the lake with the guide for the full time (usually places don’t go ahead if there’s only one of you!). Had a brill time, and the guide was really nice and had so much information and knowledge, which was cool. Was an awesome time, thank you!! Would definitely recommend.
Christopher G – Trip Advisor
We went out on to the lake with Jacob during our honeymoon. He was a fantastic host and we really loved the experience. The kayaking itself is simple for anyone and I would definitely recommend doing it with these guys to anyone.
Heather D – Trip Advisor
We had a blast on our carving kayaking trips our guide Harry was fun and knowledgeable, and kept up the energy well. Having tea and muffins on a somewhat private beach halfway was an unexpected but pleasant surprise. Also, the motor kayaks on the way back were really awesome for a leisurely time. I would absolutely recommend this trip!
Kate Heeks-Purell – Facebook
Had a great time with our guide Harry! The guy was a legend! He was funny and told us loads about the lake and carvings! The weather held out and it was a great way to spend the morning! Would totally recommend it!
James C S – Trip Advisor
If you want to see the Maori markings, this is the one for you! Harry was our guide…such a good dude. He explained all the safety stuff and made sure we were comfortable in our kayaks before setting off. Amazing views over the lake on such a sunny and calm day. (So lucky) Harry gave us running commentary, background info about the markings and just a good chat along the trip. Stopped off for a quick break to stretch our legs and have the best cake EVER! I would highly recommend this guided trip and if you’re lucky enough to get Harry as your guide, you’ve got not issues. Thanks Taupo Kayaking Adventures
