Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Stopover (Half Day)
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Stopover
Escape the crowds and discover the Bay of Islands
Locally owned and operated, with a passion for sharing our beautiful area.
Suitable for all ages, families, solo travellers and couples...experience it all!
• Cruise among 144 Subtropical Islands
• Visit the Hole in the Rock and Cathedral Cave
• Lookout for unique Marine Wildlife throughout the day
• Interactive commentary and information
• Stopover at Roberton Island and the Twin Lagoons / Otehei Bay **
• Walk to the island lookout point for stunning views over the Bay of Islands
**Route subject to change depending weather and wind directions
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Suitable for all ages
Suitable for families, couples and solo travellers
Minimum passenger numbers apply; if not met, we reserve the right to upgrade to our 4.5hr Tour (at no extra cost) or refund your tickets
The "Hole in the Rock" section of the tour is weather dependent. If conditions are not suitable to travel to The Hole in the Rock, an alternative route within the sheltered inner islands will be used.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Check-in at PIER 10 on the Paihia Wharf. Please arrive 15 minutes before your departure time.
Motu Kokako, often referred to as "the Hole in the Rock," is a stunning natural rock formation located in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand. This iconic geological wonder features a distinctive, perfectly round hole that has been carved through the middle of the island by the forces of wind and water over thousands of years. Visitors on a boat cruise are treated to the unique opportunity to sail through this picturesque opening in the rock, creating a memorable and breathtaking experience amidst the pristine beauty of the Bay of Islands. ***Cruising out to The Hole in the Rock is weather dependent. If conditions are not suitable, an alternative route will be taken within the shelter of the inner islands
What‘s Included
Small group tours
* Stopover location is determined on the day, depending on the wind direction, swell & availability
Possible Fish Feeding at our Voluntary Marine Reserve*
Visit the Hole in the Rock
Scenic Cruise among 144 Islands
Stopover at Urupukapuka or Roberton Island*, and take a short walk to the island lookout point
Cape Brett Lighthouse and the Cape Brett Peninsular
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Options
Paihia Wharf Departure
Reviews
30 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Trip was perfect! Nick...
Lovleen A,,Dec 23, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Trip was perfect! Nick managed to get us in one of the caves as far as possible and was very knowledgeable.
The boat and skipper were both great
815neala,,Dec 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Zac, the skipper was a true professional. How he does and delivers the commentary over and over agin several times a day yet makes it sounds as tough we were all special is beyond me. The boat we went on was in immaculate condition.
An awesome experience! Highly recommend!
Wanderer19389339993,,Dec 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an amazing time. The staff went out of their way to make this outing memorable. Very friendly and knowledgable team. Highly recommend!!
A Great Day Out!
Aziz M,,Dec 7, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent experience! The captain was very well informed and knowledgeable about the area and history.
Great experience
132henningr,,Dec 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Highly recommended tour, experience and company. They are a local operator which we always like to support. Hamish and crew took us out into the bay and provided a lot of information about the area. The half-day 2 Island trip provides a bit of everything: the Hole in the Rock of course with plenty of time, a shorter stop at Roberton Island with a stunning view from a hill and a longer stop at one of the larger islands giving you some time to relax or hike.
A fantastic adventure with a fantastic tour operator.
Paul K,,Dec 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We took the afternoon half day trip today and it was a magical experience of scenery, history and information. Hamish & Bluebell were excellent hosts and guides and really helpful and friendly. We had the fortune of the bottlenose dolphins too! Highly recommend this local tour operator. Thank you for the adventure.
Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Stopovers
Joanna J,,Nov 14, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00The cruise itself was excellent and luckily we had a good clear day for it. Lots of photo opportunities were provided. The staff were very professional, checking in with us regularly and accompanying us on the island walk. Lots of Dad jokes from the Skipper made it a very fun day out for everyone. Highly recommend the Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Stopovers.
Bay of Island Hole in the Wall
JulesandPepe,,Oct 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had a great day exploring the Bay of Islands. We were in great hands with the crew of Nick, Blue & Ben. THANKYOU all! Great commentary and detailed history of the area. Really enjoyed the Hole in the Wall.
Tour & Crew 10/10
Niamh M,,Oct 2, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This trip was full of beautiful views & facilitated by a great crew! Special shout out to Dan who was very friendly, helpful & most importantly good craic 🤩
Great day out!
Roman1967,,Sep 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely worth to do! Small groups, locally owned and very informative explanations at all locations. Lovely crew today with Hamish and Bluebell. We were the second time on that trip and would go anytime again!
From NZ$145.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
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Operated by Island Getaway Tours