A three‑hour coastwise cruise from Paihia that threads among 144 islands, visits Motu Kōkako (the Hole in the Rock) when conditions allow, and includes a stopover for a short island walk. Perfect for half‑day travelers seeking marine wildlife, coastal geology, and easy exploration.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off Paihia Wharf and the harbour breathes salt into your face—boats slipping past islands that lift out of the sea like dark green knuckles. The launch hums, lines are cast off, and within minutes the open water rearranges the world: land shrinks to a scalloped skyline while the Bay of Islands opens into a scatter of 144 subtropical isles. The pilot eases the bow toward a low, perforated rock known to locals as Motu Kōkako — the Hole in the Rock — and the sea dares you forward.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic mobility for on/off the vessel and a short island walk.
Wildlife
History
The islands were seasonal resource and signal points for Māori iwi, and Cape Brett Lighthouse (on the peninsula) has marked this approach since the early 1900s.
Conservation
Parts of the bay include voluntary marine reserves to protect fish habitats; visitors are asked to follow no‑take and no‑litter rules to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Stopover (Half Day) today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early and check the weather
Boarding is at Pier 10, Paihia Wharf—arrive 10–15 minutes early; the Hole in the Rock is weather dependent and plans can change.
Bring motion‑sickness prevention
The passage to the Hole can be choppy; take anti‑nausea medication beforehand if you’re prone to seasickness.
Layer up and pack sun protection
Wind, spray, and sun can all hit in one trip—bring a light waterproof, hat and SPF even on cloudy days.
Respect the marine reserve
If fish feeding occurs, follow crew instructions—don’t feed wildlife directly or leave litter on islands.
Light waterproof jacket
Blocks spray and wind on the exposed bow during the cruise.
spring
Non‑slip shoes
Provide traction boarding the boat and walking on island rocks and paths.
Sunscreen & hat
Essential protection in a subtropical sun, even on overcast days.
summer
Motion‑sickness remedy
Useful for anyone prone to sea sickness on open passages.