Boat excursions from Paihia and Russell, as well as Jet Ski trips, will take you out to the famed “Hole in the Rock.” For those seeking something truly unique, you can even land by helicopter on the island’s summit and have a picnic or celebratory drink.

Take in the vistas as you go across the Bay of Islands, all the way to the Cape Brett Peninsula’s famed Hole in the Rock on Motukokako Island (Piercy Island as it was named by James Cook in honour of one of Britains lords of the admiralty).

Magnificent in stature and protruding boldly from the Pacific Ocean It’s an island defined by its sheer cliffs that rise 148 metres above the sea and could easily have been mistaken for another large rock in the ocean had the same ocean and wind not carved out a spectacular 16-metre-high hole at its south-western end large enough for your boat to pass through on a calm day.

Local warriors used to paddle through the Hole in the Rock in their canoes before heading for fight, according to Maori folklore. Water drops from the cave roof above were a sign of good fortune. If the weather permit, your captain will carefully navigate the ship into the tiny gap… and consider yourself fortunate if you get dripped on!

On the way back, some tour boats stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, providing an opportunity to walk up to stunning vantage points overlooking the Bay of Islands’ islands, while the Explore NZ  and Fullers cruise offers a hearty snack and a chance to relax at the island restaurant/bar. For the more adventurous, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards are available for hire, or simply grab a beanbag and soak up the island’s easygoing atmosphere.