Built in Rotorua and launched in 1986, the Lakeland Queen has spent her entire life cruising the waters of Lake Rotorua, becoming one of the region’s most loved icons along the way.
Inspired by the classic Mississippi paddle steamers, the Queen was designed specifically for Rotorua’s shallow lakebed, with her signature stern paddle wheel powered by a 240hp Cummins diesel engine.
After years away from the water, the Lady of the Lake has been beautifully restored under new ownership — blending modern comfort with the timeless character that has made her special for generations.
Some things just get better with time. And they’re even better on the Queen.
The Royal Family
The Lakeland Queen is proudly family-owned and operated by Damon and Arna - the people behind the warm welcome, memorable experiences and attention to detail that make every cruise special. From restoring and preserving this iconic vessel to hosting visitors from around the world, they share a passion for Rotorua, hospitality and creating moments worth remembering.
Whether you're joining us for a scenic cruise, private celebration or corporate event, you'll often find one of the family onboard, ensuring every guest experiences the very best of the Queen.
The story of Hinemoa and Tūtānekai is one of Aotearoa’s greatest love stories — a tale of courage, devotion, and the deep cultural history of Rotorua.
Many generations ago, Hinemoa was a high-born woman of Te Arawa living at Ōhinemutu on the shores of Lake Rotorua. Across the water on Mokoia Island lived Tūtānekai, a gifted musician known for playing beautiful melodies on his kōauau, a traditional Māori flute.
Although the two fell deeply in love, their relationship was forbidden. Hinemoa’s family believed she should marry someone of higher rank and tried to keep the pair apart. Each night, Tūtānekai would sit on Mokoia Island and play his flute across the lake, hoping the music would reach Hinemoa on the distant shore.
Determined to be with him, Hinemoa made a brave decision. One night, after her family had pulled all the canoes ashore to stop her crossing the lake, she secretly gathered several hollow gourds to help her float. Guided only by the sound of Tūtānekai’s flute and the moonlight reflecting on the water, she swam across the cold waters of Lake Rotorua toward Mokoia Island.
After a long and difficult journey, Hinemoa reached the island exhausted and chilled. She discovered a natural hot spring where she could warm herself before finally meeting Tūtānekai face to face. When he realised who she was and the extraordinary journey she had made for love, the two were united at last.
Their marriage brought together families and strengthened peace among the people of Te Arawa. Today, the story of Hinemoa and Tūtānekai remains a powerful symbol of love, perseverance, and unity, and is deeply woven into the cultural identity of Rotorua.
As the Lakeland Queen cruises across these same waters, guests can still imagine the sound of the flute drifting across the lake, carrying one of New Zealand’s most enduring love stories through time.
