3 Hours // Hole in the Rock Cruise & Bay of Islands Tour
Overview
About
Discover the beauty of New Zealand’s Bay of Islands on a half-day boat adventure—an excellent way to see the region from the water. Sail among 144 lush subtropical islands, pass by the Hole in the Rock, and view the historic Cape Brett Lighthouse. Stop at Motuarohia (Roberton) Island for a guided bush walk and soak in sweeping views from the island’s lookout. As you cruise, spot local wildlife and marine creatures, all while listening to engaging commentary from your guide.
At a Glance
- Ages: Ages 0-99, max of 49 per group
- Type: Mobile ticket
- Duration: 3h
- Live Guide: English
Tour Highlight
- Magnificent views of the Bay of Islands from the water—something many travelers miss
- Enjoy live commentary throughout the day
- Head out on a bush walk to see the bay from a lookout point
- Spot native wild life and marine life from your spot on the boat
What you'll do
This is a typical itinerary for this product
Stop At: Island Getaway Tours, 69 Marsden Road, Paihia 0200, New Zealand
Check in is at PIER 10 on the Paihia wharf, please arrive 15 minutes before your departure time
Duration: 15 minutes
Pass By: Bay of Islands, Bay of Islands, Northland Region, North Island
This cruise and Island Tour promises an unforgettable experience, with highlights including an island stopover and visiting the famous "Hole in the Rock" plus scenic cruising through the 144 islands.
Marvel at the breathtaking natural wonder known as the "Hole in the Rock" and the iconic Cape Brett Lighthouse.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of this pristine marine playground as you explore secluded coves, witness rich marine life, and soak in the picturesque landscapes. A perfect blend of relaxation and exploration awaits on this Bay of Islands excursion.
Stop At: Motuarohia (Roberton) Island Track, Motuarohia Island Recreation Reserve, Auckland Central, Auckland New Zealand
Stopover on Motuarohia (Twin Lagoons Island) and take a short walk to the stunning island lookout for breathtaking panoramic views over the Bay of Islands
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Motukokako Island / Piercy Island, Northland Region, New Zealand
Cruise out to Motu Kokako, often referred to as "the Hole in the Rock," a stunning natural rock formation located at the end of the Cape Brett Peninsula. 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. A memorable and breathtaking experience amidst the pristine beauty of the Bay of Islands.
***Visiting the Hole in the Rock is weather dependent. If conditions are not suitable on the day, an alternative route within the sheltered inner islands will be used.
Duration: 25 minutes
Meeting and pickup
What is included?
- Smaller Group Tours (49 Guests Max)
- Scenic Cruise among 144 Islands
- Remote island stopover (Roberton Island)
- Wildlife spotting, commentary and information throughout the day
- Visit the famous "Hole in the Rock" and Cape Brett Lighthouse
What is not included?
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Lunch
- Alcoholic Beverages
Additional Information
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Most travelers can participate
- CRUISE SHIP PASSENGERS: If you are arriving in Waitangi Wharf, the cruiseship provides FREE shuttle buses for cruise ship guests to transfer you into Paihia (5 minute bus ride) The bus will drop you off outside the Paihia Wharf next to our check-in location - Pier 10 on the Paihia Wharf
- Suitable for families, couples and solo travellers
- Suitable for all ages
- No-show will forfeit 100% of the ticket cost
- Cruise-ship guests need to ensure their travel insurance covers them in the unlikely event that the cruise-ship does not stop in port, as we are unable to refund in these situations.
- 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.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 49 travelers
Meet your host
Itinerary
Paihia Adventure Tours Itinerary (2026 Guide) – What You'll See & Do
Explore the full itinerary for 3 Hours // Hole in the Rock Cruise & Bay of Islands Tour in Paihia, New Zealand. This adventure tours experience includes 3 stops over 1 day. Duration: 1 hours. Activity level: Moderate.
Here is the starting point
Island Getaway Tours
Check in is at PIER 10 on the Paihia wharf, please arrive 15 minutes before your departure time
Motuarohia (Roberton) Island Track
Stopover on Motuarohia (Twin Lagoons Island) and take a short walk to the stunning island lookout for breathtaking panoramic views over the Bay of Islands
Motukokako Island / Piercy Island
Cruise out to Motu Kokako, often referred to as "the Hole in the Rock," a stunning natural rock formation located at the end of the Cape Brett Peninsula. 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. A memorable and breathtaking experience amidst the pristine beauty of the Bay of Islands. ***Visiting the Hole in the Rock is weather dependent. If conditions are not suitable on the day, an alternative route within the sheltered inner islands will be used.
This concludes the tour.
Bay of Islands
Island Tour
Eco Tours
Half-day Tours
Nature & Scenic Tour