New Zealand · Bay of Islands
Hole in the Rock
Cruise through the famous natural rock arch at Cape Brett, often surrounded by playful dolphins.
About Hole in the Rock
Carved by tens of thousands of years of waves and wind, the Hole in the Rock is the Bay of Islands' most photographed natural landmark — a 18-metre arch through the eastern point of Motukōkako (Piercy Island), at the mouth of the Bay.
On calm days, tour boats nose right through the arch — an unforgettable experience flanked by towering sea cliffs and almost guaranteed dolphin sightings along the way.
While You're There
What to See & Do
- Pass through the 18m natural rock arch by boat
- Bottlenose and common dolphins escorting the cruise
- Towering sea cliffs and seabird colonies of Motukōkako
- Cape Brett lighthouse perched dramatically on the headland
How We Can Arrange It
We'll Take Care of the Details
As your booking agent, Mercury Pacific can include Hole in the Rock in your tailored itinerary. Here's what we'll handle and advise on so you can simply enjoy the experience:
Most cruises depart from Paihia or Russell and take 4 hours return
Calmer seas in the morning give the best chance of going through the arch
Bring a windbreaker — it can be breezy on the open water
Every detail — bookings, timings and transfers — is arranged for you as part of your Mercury Pacific tour.
When to Visit
November to April for warm seas and the highest chance of dolphin pods.
Include Hole in the Rock in Your TourKeep Exploring
More in Bay of Islands
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Walk the lawn where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 and learn the story of New Zealand's founding.
Russell — NZ's First Capital
The country's oldest port town with colonial architecture, waterfront pubs and a fascinating past.
Sailing & Dolphin Cruises
Tall-ship sailing, swim-with-dolphins experiences, and overnight cruises through the islands.