The Ngatoroirangi Mine Bay Rock Carving is a significant cultural and artistic attraction located on Lake Taupo in New Zealand. This impressive rock carving was created by master carver Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The carving is situated on a sheer rock face that rises from the waters of Lake Taupo and can only be reached by boat or kayak.
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| Ngatoroirangi Mine Bay Rock Carving Lake Taupo |
The carving depicts Ngatoroirangi, a prominent figure in Maori mythology. Ngatoroirangi was a navigator and tohunga (spiritual leader) who played a vital role in the migration of the Te Arawa tribe to the Taupo region. The carving is an impressive 14 meters (46 feet) high and is considered one of the largest rock carvings in the Southern Hemisphere.
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| Ngatoroirangi Mine Bay Rock Carving Lake Taupo |
Visitors to Lake Taupo often take boat tours to see this remarkable cultural and artistic treasure, which is not only a testament to Maori heritage but also a beautiful example of contemporary Maori artistry. The location of the carving in the picturesque Mine Bay, surrounded by the natural beauty of Lake Taupo and the surrounding landscape, makes it a must-visit destination for those interested in Maori culture and art, as well as for anyone seeking scenic beauty in New Zealand's North Island.