7 Unique Ways to Experience The Hole in the Rock
7 Unique Ways to Experience The Hole in the Rock - Bay of islands
Cruises, Jet Skis, Fast Boats & Helicopter Adventures
Explore the Hole in the Rock – 7 Ways to Experience Bay of Islands' Iconic Landmark
Boat excursions from Paihia and Russell, as well as Jet Ski trips, offer thrilling adventures to the famed Hole in the Rock. For those seeking something truly unique, helicopter tours provide the opportunity to land on the island’s summit for a picnic or celebratory drink, offering stunning aerial views of the Bay of Islands.
As you journey across the bay, you’ll reach Motukokako Island (also known as Piercy Island, named by James Cook after one of Britain’s Lords of the Admiralty), home to the legendary Hole in the Rock. This majestic natural wonder rises 148 meters above the Pacific Ocean and is carved with a 16-meter-high hole at its south-western end—large enough for boats to pass through on calm days.
According to Maori folklore, local warriors would paddle through the Hole in the Rock in their canoes before heading into battle, and water drops from the cave’s ceiling were considered a sign of good fortune. On calm days, your captain may carefully navigate your boat through the narrow gap—consider yourself lucky if you get dripped on!
On your return journey, some tours stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where you can walk to stunning vantage points overlooking the Bay of Islands’ islands. The Explore NZ and Fullers cruises offer a hearty snack and the chance to relax at the island’s restaurant or bar. For the adventurous, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available for hire, or you can simply relax with a beanbag, soaking in the island’s laid-back atmosphere.
Visit the Bay of Islands Hole in the Rock
Fullers Great Sights - Hole in the Rock & Dolphin Viewing Cruise
Book online & get a discount (Save 10%)
Price: $160 per adult – $80:00 per Child (Book online and get a 10% Discount)
Departs: 8:30 am & 2:00 Paihia & Russell 8:40 am & 2:10 pm
Duration: 3.5 to 4 Hours
Embark on a half-day adventure in the stunning Bay of Islands with Fullers Great Sights. This popular dolphin viewing cruise is an unforgettable way to explore the region’s natural beauty and abundant marine life.
Board your cruise from Paihia or Russell, and enjoy breathtaking vistas as you glide through the islands, heading toward Cape Brett. Along the way, your tour will take you to the iconic Hole in the Rock (Motukokako Island), guarded by a historic lighthouse. This awe-inspiring natural wonder is a must-see and can only be fully appreciated from the water.
On board the Dolphin Seeker vessel, you’ll find a mix of indoor and outdoor seating, as well as one of the Bay of Islands’ largest outdoor observation decks. Relax and enjoy the view as you search for dolphins, seals, and other marine life. Throughout the tour, hot and cold refreshments are available to keep you refreshed and comfortable.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or looking to experience one of New Zealand’s most scenic locations, this dolphin cruise offers a memorable way to see the beauty of the Bay of Islands. Book online today to receive a 10% discount and reserve your spot!
Explore NZ – Discover the Bay of Islands Hole in the Rock Cruise
Book online & get a discount (Save 10%) “Includes Lunch at Otehei Bay”
Price: Adult $180 per person – Child $90:00 (Age 5 to 15 yrs old)
Departs: Paihia 8:30 am & 2:00 pm & Russell 8:40 am & 2:10 pm
Duration: approx 4.5 hours
Embark on a scenic cruise through the Bay of Islands to explore the world-famous Hole in the Rock, an iconic natural landmark. Your adventure begins with a stunning journey through the bay’s many islands and tranquil coves, offering breathtaking views along the way.
Weather permitting, your cruise will pass through the Hole in the Rock and venture into the Cathedral Cave, providing the perfect opportunity for photos of this remarkable formation. On this tour, you’ll also step ashore at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where a delicious lunch awaits. After your meal, take time to explore the island’s scenic walking trails and enjoy stunning viewpoints, or simply relax on the beach.
For the more adventurous, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available for hire, giving you the chance to explore the bay’s crystal-clear waters. Along the way, you’ll encounter a diverse range of wildlife, including local pods of dolphins, whales, and orcas, with a viewing guarantee. You may also spot seals basking on rocks and witness an abundance of native birdlife.
This unforgettable cruise combines breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and time for relaxation, making it the perfect way to experience the Bay of Islands.
Book online today to receive a 10% discount and secure your spot on this unique adventure!
The Cream trip is one of the Bay of Islands most popular cruises
The Fullers Cream Trip (Full Day)
Book online & get a discount (Save 10%)
Price: $195 per adult – $97.50 per Child (Book online and get a 10% Discount)
Departs: 9:30 am Paihia & Russell 9:40 am (returns approx 4:30 pm)
Duration: approx 7 hours
Experience the best of the Bay of Islands in one unforgettable day with the iconic Fullers Cream Trip. This popular full-day cruise takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the region, including the famous Hole in the Rock, offering you the chance to see a variety of incredible sights in a single trip.
The journey begins with a scenic cruise through the Bay of Islands, where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the many islands and secluded coves. Stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where you’ll have the opportunity to step ashore and take a leisurely walk to one of the island’s many lookouts. From these vantage points, you’ll be treated to 360-degree views of the entire Bay of Islands, making it the perfect spot for photos.
On this tour, you’ll also have the unique opportunity to view and swim with local dolphins, offering a truly immersive experience in the crystal-clear waters of the bay. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife, ensuring a day full of adventure and relaxation.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, wildlife lover, or simply looking to experience the best of the Bay of Islands, the Fullers Cream Trip offers the ultimate way to explore this breathtaking part of New Zealand.
More Information:
"Island Getaway" Hole in the Rock
Price: $159 per person – Child $80:00 (Under 15 years of age)
Family: 2 Adults +2 Children $399
Departs: Paihia 10:00 am
Duration: 4.5 Hours
Join us on an unforgettable Island Getaway with this scenic Bay of Islands cruise. Departing from Paihia or Russell, this tour takes you on a journey through the stunning coastline and inner islands, offering an immersive experience in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful regions.
As you cruise along the Cape Brett Peninsula, you’ll visit the historic landing site of Captain James Cook and have the chance to spot fascinating marine wildlife. Along the way, you’ll reach Motukokako Island, home to the famous Hole in the Rock, and pass by the picturesque Cape Brett Lighthouse.
But that’s not all! On the return journey, we’ll stop at one of the Bay of Islands’ 144 remote islands. Here, you can enjoy a short walk to lookout points with breathtaking panoramic views of the bay. Explore the island at your own pace and take in the serene beauty of the area.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply soaking up the stunning scenery, this cruise offers something for everyone.
Book your Island Getaway today and immerse yourself in the magic of the Bay of Islands!
More Information:
Jet Ski Through The Bay of Island's to the Hole in the Rock
Price: $490 per Jet ski (All Jet Skis can take up to 2 adults)
Departs: 8:30 am & 11.30 am Paihia
Duration: approx 2.5 hours.
Looking for excitement and adventure? The Bay Bonanza Guided Jet Ski Tour is your ultimate thrill ride. This high-speed adventure takes you through both the inner and outer islands of the Bay of Islands, all the way to the world-famous Hole in the Rock.
As you jet through the stunning waters, you’ll pass by the Cathedral Caves and the iconic Cape Brett Lighthouse. Feel the rush as you navigate these beautiful surroundings before stopping at Urupukapuka Island for a break at the island café.
Next, continue on to Roberton Island, where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Twin Lagoons, before meandering your way back to Paihia. Along the way, you’ll pass Tapeka Point and the historic seaside settlement of Russell, making for a perfect end to your exhilarating journey.
This tour combines adventure, natural beauty, and the thrill of Jet Skiing, offering a truly unique way to explore the Bay of Islands.
Book your Jet Ski adventure today and experience the excitement of the Bay of Islands like never before!
Explore NZ - Fast Boat to the Hole in the Rock
Book online & get a discount (Save 10%)
Price: Adult: $150 per person – Child $75 pp
Departs: Paihia 10:00 am, 12:00 pm . 2:00 pm & 4:00 pm (dependent on numbers)
Duration: One and a half hours
Looking for an exhilarating adventure in the Bay of Islands? Hop aboard Explore NZ’s state-of-the-art fast boat and enjoy an adrenaline-packed ride to the world-famous Hole in the Rock.
This one-and-a-half-hour tour departs from Paihia and Russell, taking you through the stunning inner islands of the Bay of Islands to the Cape Brett Peninsula, home to the iconic Hole in the Rock. Along the way, you’ll cruise past 114 breathtaking islands, remote sandy beaches, and crystal-clear lagoons, all while enjoying spectacular views of this picturesque region.
Your guide and skipper will share fascinating stories and legends from the area’s rich history, adding depth to your journey as you explore this natural wonder. Frequent stops are made for photo opportunities, allowing you to capture the stunning landscapes of the bay and its hidden gems.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover, this fast boat tour offers the perfect combination of excitement and beauty.
Book your fast boat adventure today and save 10% on this unforgettable ride to the Hole in the Rock!
More information:
The ultimate Hole in the Rock Experience
Salt Air Scenic Flight - Helicopter Landing on the Hole in the Rock
Price: $429 per adult
Departs: 11:30 am
Duration: 35 minutes.
Embark on the ultimate adventure with Salt Air’s scenic helicopter flight to the iconic Hole in the Rock. This exclusive tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to land on top of this world-renowned natural monument and take in the breathtaking views from the air and the island’s observation platform.
The adventure begins with a thrilling helicopter flight that takes you over the stunning Bay of Islands. Upon reaching Motukokako Island, you’ll land on our recently constructed helipad, perched high above the famous Hole in the Rock. This stop gives you the perfect opportunity to capture one-of-a-kind images with panoramic views of the Cape Brett Peninsula, the surrounding islands, and the pristine waters of the Bay of Islands.
From your elevated vantage point, you’ll be surrounded by sheer cliffs rising over 148 meters. Look out towards the Poor Knights Islands to the south, the Cavalli Islands to the north, and sweeping views across the Bay of Islands to Paihia and Russell.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply want to experience the Bay of Islands from a new perspective, this helicopter tour offers the ultimate way to view one of New Zealand’s most iconic landmarks.
Book your Salt Air Helicopter adventure today for the chance to land on the legendary Hole in the Rock! More information:
Stay longer in the Bay of Islands
Combine your Experience with Great Accommodation
Spacious Three Bedroom Apartment Views over the bay Two Bedroom Cottage