Hole in the Rock Cruises – 7 Best Bay of Islands Tours
Page Updated : 14 th June 2026 2026
Compare Hole in the Rock Cruise and Tour Options
Planning a Hole in the Rock cruise from Paihia or Russell? We’ve compared seven of the best Bay of Islands experiences, from classic dolphin cruises and island stopovers to jet skis, fast boats and helicopter landings, helping you choose the perfect trip for your budget and travel style.
Which Hole in the Rock Tour Is Best?
Comparisons:
- Classic dolphin cruise: Fullers GreatSights
- Lunch & island stopovers: Explore NZ Discover the Bay
- Small-group experience: Island Getaway
- Best full-day adventure: Fullers Cream Trip
- Fastest ride to the Hole in the Rock: Explore NZ Fast Boat
- Ultimate adrenaline option: Bay Bonanza Jet Ski Tour
- Bucket-list luxury experience: Salt Air Helicopter Landin
Experience the Hole in the Rock – Seven Unforgettable Ways to Explore This Iconic Landmark
Discover the best Hole in the Rock tours in the Bay of Islands. Departing from Paihia and Russell, these unforgettable experiences include scenic cruises, fast boat adventures, jet ski rides and exclusive helicopter landings to Motukokako Island. Compare the top tour options and choose the perfect way to explore this iconic New Zealand landmark.
For a classic Bay of Islands experience, choose a boat cruise that lets you navigate through the crystal-clear waters, spot dolphins and marine life, and pass through the legendary rock archway (weather permitting). If you’re after an adrenaline rush, hop on a fast boat tour or pilot your own jet ski across the bay for an up-close view of this stunning geological formation. For the ultimate bird’s-eye perspective, take a helicopter flight and land atop the island’s summit—a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The History & Legends of the Hole in the Rock
Also known as Piercy Island (named by Captain James Cook in 1769), Motukokako Island rises 148 meters above the Pacific Ocean, with its 16-meter-high archway carved by centuries of wind and waves. According to Māori tradition, warriors paddled through the Hole in the Rock before battle, believing that if water dripped on them from above, it was a sign of good luck.
More Than Just the Hole in the Rock – Otehei Bay & Island Adventures
Many tours include a stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where you can hike to breathtaking viewpoints, swim in pristine waters, or relax with a drink at the beachfront café. Adventure seekers can hire kayaks or stand-up paddleboards for a closer connection with the bay’s tranquil waters.
Whichever way you choose to explore, a trip to the Hole in the Rock promises breathtaking views, fascinating history, and unforgettable memories in the heart of the Bay of Islands.
Explore Hole in the Rock Cruise and Tour Options
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 $190 per person – Child $95:00 (Age 5 to 15 yrs old) Family 2ad + 2ch $475
Departs: Paihia 8:30 am & 2:00 pm & Russell 8:40 am & 2:10 pm
Duration: approx 4.5 hours
Best suited to travellers wanting more island time and lunch at Otehei Bay.
Scenic Bay of Islands Cruise + Otehei Bay Stop
Step aboard Explore NZ’s Discover the Bay Cruise for a premium experience combining the best of the Bay of Islands. Witness the legendary Hole in the Rock, explore Cathedral Cave, and enjoy a delicious lunch on Urupukapuka Island.
✔ Pass through the Hole in the Rock (weather permitting) – A once-in-a-lifetime experience.
✔ Scenic stop at Otehei Bay – Enjoy a beachside lunch, scenic trails & panoramic views.
✔ Kayaks & paddleboards available – Rent one to explore the bay’s crystal-clear waters.
✔ Dolphin & wildlife viewing guarantee – Spot whales, orcas, and seabirds on your journey.
A must-do for nature lovers & adventure seekers alike!
Book now and get 10% off online!
Fullers Great Sights - Hole in the Rock & Dolphin Viewing Cruise
Book online & get a discount (Save 10%)
Price: $170 per adult – $85:00 per Child (Book online and get a 10% Discount) Family 2ad + 2ch $425
Departs: 8:30 am & 2:00 Paihia & Russell 8:40 am & 2:10 pm
Duration: 3.5 to 4 Hours
Ideal for first-time visitors and families wanting the classic Hole in the Rock experience.
The Ultimate Hole in the Rock & Dolphin Cruise
Embark on an unforgettable half-day cruise through the stunning Bay of Islands with Fullers GreatSights. This tour is one of the best ways to explore the legendary Hole in the Rock (Motukokako Island) while spotting dolphins, seals, and other marine life along the way.
✔ Dolphin & wildlife spotting – Search for Bottlenose Dolphins, whales, and seabirds.
✔ Sail through the Hole in the Rock (weather permitting) – Witness this natural wonder up close.
✔ Relax on a spacious catamaran – Featuring indoor seating, a large observation deck & refreshments.
Bonus: Tours include an island stop at Otehei Bay! Stroll scenic trails, enjoy beachside dining, or simply unwind in a peaceful paradise amidst Birdlife.
Book now and save 10% when you book online!
"Island Getaway" Hole in the Rock Island Visits & Marine Life
Price: $169 per person – Child $85:00 (Under 15 years of age)
Family: 2 Adults +2 Children $425
Departs: Paihia 10:00 am
Duration: 4.5 Hours
Scenic Cruise, Island Stopovers & the Hole in the Rock
Set sail on a breathtaking cruise through the Bay of Islands’ scenic coastline and remote islands. This small-group tour offers the perfect mix of adventure, history, and stunning views.
✔ Explore the famous Hole in the Rock – Cruise past Motukokako Island & Cape Brett Lighthouse.
✔ Historic landmarks – Visit sites linked to Captain James Cook’s first landing.
✔ Island stopover experience – Step ashore at one of the Bay of Islands’ pristine remote islands.
✔ Breathtaking scenic lookouts – Enjoy panoramic 360-degree views from island trails.
✔ Spot marine wildlife – Keep an eye out for dolphins, seabirds & seals as you cruise.
Perfect for families, photographers & nature lovers alike!
Book your Island Getaway today and discover the magic of the Bay of Islands!
The Cream trip is one of the Bay of Islands most popular cruises
Book online & get a discount (Save 10%)
Price: $220 per adult – $110 per Child (Book online and get a 10% Discount) Family 2ad + 2ch $550
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 Day
The Fullers Cream Trip is the ultimate full-day adventure, offering a scenic cruise, wildlife encounters, and island stopovers all in one journey.
✔ Visit the Hole in the Rock – Cruise through the stunning Cape Brett Peninsula.
✔ Step ashore at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island – Relax on the beach, hike to panoramic lookouts, or enjoy a delicious meal.
✔ Dolphin spotting & Viewing opportunity – Get the camera ready
✔ Secluded island coves & breathtaking views – Perfect for photography & wildlife lovers.
A must-do experience for travelers who want to see it all!
Book today and save 10% online!
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 Paihia: Time given on booking
Duration: approx 2.5 hours.
Thrill-Seeker’s Dream – Ride Your Own Jet Ski to the Hole in the Rock!
Looking for adrenaline, speed, and adventure? The Bay Bonanza Guided Jet Ski Tour is an unmatched thrill ride, taking you through the inner & outer islands of the Bay of Islands – all the way to the legendary Hole in the Rock!
✔ Navigate through the Cathedral Caves – Ride past towering rock formations & hidden coves.
✔ Pass by the Cape Brett Lighthouse – One of New Zealand’s most iconic maritime landmarks.
✔ Stop at Urupukapuka Island – Grab a refreshing break at the island café.
✔ Cruise past Roberton Island & the Twin Lagoons – One of the most photographed spots in the Bay of Islands.
✔ Scenic return via Tapeka Point & Russell – Explore New Zealand’s first European settlement from the water.
The ultimate way to explore the Bay of Islands – Fast, exhilarating & unforgettable!
Book your Jet Ski adventure now and experience the excitement like never before!
Fast Boat to the Hole in the Rock - Explore NZ
Book online & get a discount (Save 20%)
Price: Adult: $150 per person – Child $75 pp Family 2ad + 2ch $300
Departs: Paihia 9:30 am, 12:00 pm . 2:30 pm
Duration: One and a half hours
Perfect if you’re short on time but still want to experience the outer islands.
Adrenaline Meets Scenic Beauty – The Fastest Ride to the Hole in the Rock!
Craving speed, excitement, and jaw-dropping views? Jump aboard Explore NZ’s high-powered fast boat and experience the thrill of a lifetime as you zip across the Bay of Islands toward the legendary Hole in the Rock.
✔ High-speed adventure – Glide across the bay at up to 35 knots, feeling the power of this purpose-built speedboat.
✔ Cruise through 114 breathtaking islands – Spot secluded beaches, crystal-clear lagoons & dramatic cliffs.
✔ Pass the iconic Cape Brett Peninsula – Home to the historic lighthouse & stunning rock formations.
✔ Expert commentary & photo stops – Your guide will share fascinating Māori legends & hidden secrets of the bay.
✔ Wildlife spotting – Keep an eye out for dolphins, seals & seabirds along the way.
A must-do for thrill-seekers & adventure lovers alike!
Book your fast boat adventure today & save 10%!
The ultimate Hole in the Rock Experience
Salt Air Scenic Flight - Helicopter Landing on the Hole in the Rock
Price: $480 per passenger
Departs: 11:30 am
Duration: 35 minutes.
The Ultimate Hole in the Rock Experience – Land on this Iconic Landmark!
Take to the skies and experience the Bay of Islands from a breathtaking aerial perspective. This exclusive helicopter tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to land atop the world-famous Hole in the Rock for an unforgettable moment.
✔ Scenic helicopter flight over the Bay of Islands – Enjoy aerial views of Paihia, Russell, and Cape Brett.
✔ Exclusive landing on Motukokako Island – Step onto our private helipad, built high above the crashing waves.
✔ Unparalleled 360° views – See as far as the Poor Knights Islands to the south & Cavalli Islands to the north.
✔ One-of-a-kind photo opportunity – Capture stunning images from the observation platform.
✔ Expert pilot commentary – Learn about the geology, history & Māori legends surrounding the island.
The only way to stand atop the Hole in the Rock – an adventure like no other!
Book your Salt Air Helicopter adventure today & land on this legendary landmark!
⭐ Hole in the Rock Tour Ratings
Most Hole in the Rock tours in the Bay of Islands receive excellent reviews across Google and TripAdvisor, with many experiences rated 4.5 stars and above. Wildlife sightings, knowledgeable crews, and unforgettable scenery are consistently highlighted by visitors.
Hole in the Rock Tours – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General “Hole in the Rock Tour Information
Q: Is the Hole in the Rock cruise worth it?
A: Yes. For many visitors it is the highlight of the Bay of Islands, combining spectacular scenery, wildlife viewing and Māori history in one experience.
Q: Which Hole in the Rock cruise is best?
A: Fullers is ideal for a classic cruise, Explore NZ suits travellers wanting lunch and island time, Island Getaway offers a smaller-group experience, while fast boats, jet skis and helicopters cater to adventure seekers
Q. Which is better: Fullers or Explore NZ Hole in the Rock cruise?
A; Fullers GreatSights is ideal for travellers wanting a classic Hole in the Rock dolphin cruise with spacious viewing decks and family-friendly facilities. Explore NZ’s Discover the Bay cruise suits those looking for a premium experience with lunch at Otehei Bay and more time exploring the islands. Both are excellent choices, with the best option depending on your budget and travel style.
Q: How far is the Hole in the Rock from Paihia.
A: The Hole in the Rock is approximately 27 kilometers (17 miles) from Paihia. Depending on the tour type, it takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours to reach, including scenic stops along the way.
Q: Can boats pass through the Hole in the Rock
A: Yes, but only when weather and sea conditions are calm. Skilled captains can navigate through the narrow opening, giving passengers an up-close experience of this natural wonder.
Q: What happens if the sea is too rough to go through the Hole in the Rock?
A: While all tours aim to pass through the Hole in the Rock, safety always comes first. Even on sunny days, ocean swells around Cape Brett can prevent vessels from navigating through the opening. In these cases, tours still cruise close to Motukōkako Island and continue to showcase the spectacular scenery and wildlife of the Bay of Islands.
Q: Is the Hole in the Rock tour suitable for children?
A: Absolutely! Most tours are family-friendly, with safe seating and life jackets provided. Kids love spotting dolphins, seabirds, and even whales along the way.
Historical & Cultural Insights
Q: When was the Cape Brett Lighthouse last manned?
A: The Cape Brett Lighthouse was last manned in 1978 before it was fully automated. Built in 1910, it played a crucial role in guiding ships through the challenging waters of the Bay of Islands.
Q: What is the Māori legend of the Hole in the Rock?
A: According to Māori tradition, warriors paddled through the Hole in the Rock before heading into battle. Water drops falling from the cave ceiling were seen as a blessing and a sign of good luck.
Q: What’s the history of Urupukapuka Island?
A: Urupukapuka Island was once a thriving Māori settlement, rich in archaeological sites like pā (fortified villages) and ancient food storage pits. Today, it’s a recreational paradise with walking trails, historical sites, and stunning beaches.
Q: What does ‘Motukokako’ mean?
A: Motukokako is the Māori name for Piercy Island, home to the Hole in the Rock. It translates to “island of the kokako,” a rare native bird. Although kokako are no longer found on the island, the name preserves its cultural heritage.
Wildlife & Nature
Q: What wildlife can I see on a Hole in the Rock tour?
A: You may spot Bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, orcas, whales, and New Zealand fur seals. The surrounding islands are also home to seabirds like gannets, terns, and petrels.
Q: Are there walking tracks on Urupukapuka Island?
A: Yes! Urupukapuka Island has several scenic walking trails that offer panoramic views of the Bay of Islands. Popular tracks include the Urupukapuka Loop Track and shorter walks to historic pā sites.
Fun Facts:
Q: How big is the Hole in the Rock?
A: The Hole in the Rock is about 16 meters (52 feet) high and large enough for small boats to pass through. The surrounding cliffs rise to over 148 meters (485 feet) above sea level!
Q: Has anyone landed on the Hole in the Rock?
A: Yes, Helicopter tours now offer the unique opportunity to land on top of the Hole in the Rock at a specially constructed helipad, providing breathtaking views.