Maori Rock Carvings

Lake Taupo is the biggest lake in New Zealand. It actually sits on the second largest volcono in the world. Basically, the crater on the top of the volcano is filled with water and that makes this huge lake. I found that piece of information out when I was already on the boat, so it was too late to run...

Because I had hiked for 6 hours the day before, my calves were fire. I had planned a sailboat cruise around Lake Taupo which passed by the Maori Rock Carvings. The boat was amazing! It was so nice to finally relax. There were bean bags on deck so I lounged and took in the view. Although it was a hot day, the wind over the lake made it a bit chilly. The boat finally arrived to the carvings and they were huge! It was so pretty because this beautiful piece of art is literally in the middle of nowhere. There are three parts to this carving: the face on the big flat rock, the lizard to the left of it, and the woman next to that.

Even though I was already a bit chilly, I have always wanted to swim with the carvings. The excuse "We're in New Zealand" can be quite convincing. My friends and I jumped in the water and swam around. It was so amazing to see them up close. The wind made the boat ride back pretty cold, so we cuddled up and enjoyed the ride. Not too far from the lake is a hot spring that literally feels like bathwater from the thermal pools. It was like swimming in nature's hot tub. The three of us relaxed in there before heading back to Auckland. It was the perfect way to end a hectic weekend.