Cruise to the Hole in the Rock
69 Marsden Road, Paihia 0200, New Zealand
4.7★ (193 reviews)
Open in MapsScattered like a string of gems off New Zealand’s northern coast, the Bay of Islands is a sunlit tapestry of turquoise water, sheltered coves and about 144 subtropical islets.
Scattered like a string of gems off New Zealand’s northern coast, the Bay of Islands is a sunlit tapestry of turquoise water, sheltered coves and about 144 subtropical islets.Pohutukawa trees cling to rocky headlands, sailboats drift on glassy harbors and golden beaches curl into quiet bays where dolphins often glide at dawn.
Explore hotels in Bay of IslandsWeather
Overcast
Feels like 12°C
Local time: Fri 4:12 AM
Best window
Oct–Dec • Mar–Apr
Shoulder
Sep • May
Watch for
Jan–Feb (peak summer demand)
Summer (Dec–Feb): warm (about 20–25°C), calm seas—best for sailing, swimming and island hopping; busiest time with higher prices and Waitangi Day (Feb 6) ceremonies nearby. Autumn (Mar–May): mild (15–22°C) and settled—shoulder season with fewer crowds, great for fishing, diving and hiking; good value. Winter (Jun–Aug): mild and cooler (10–15°C) with occasional rain but many crisp, clear days—quietest period, lower rates, ideal for peaceful walks, fishing and enjoying local Matariki activities. Spring (Sep–Nov): warming (12–20°C), blossoming landscapes and renewed wildlife activity—moderate crowds and excellent for kayaking, early-season sailing and birdwatching.
7-day forecast
Fri
25° / 12°
Overcast
Sat
25° / 12°
Fog
Sun
25° / 10°
Fog
Mon
23° / 11°
Overcast
Tue
21° / 15°
Overcast
Wed
21° / 18°
Overcast
Thu
20° / 18°
Rain
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Handpicked stays for your perfect getaway
1. Hole in the Rock (Motukōkako) cruise — Take a boat trip through or past the famous natural arch, often combined with dolphin encounters and scenic cruising among the islands. 2. Waitangi Treaty Grounds — New Zealand’s founding historic site with museums, guided tours and cultural performances explaining the 1840 Treaty of Waitangi. 3. Russell (Kororāreka) village — Charming historic seaside town with colonial buildings, cafes and a short walk up Flagstaff Hill for panoramic harbour views. 4. Urupukapuka Island — The largest island in the bay offering short walking tracks, sheltered beaches, swimming, snorkeling and picnic spots. 5. Cape Brett and the Lighthouse track/boat trip — A dramatic coastal headland offering panoramic ocean views, wildlife spotting and access to the famous lighthouse via boat or long coastal hike. 6. Kerikeri Heritage Sites & Rainbow Falls — Visit the Stone Store and Kemp House (early missionary buildings) and nearby Rainbow Falls for a mix of history and nature. 7. Kayaking, sailing and snorkeling — Explore hidden coves, sea caves and reefs by kayak or day-sail; excellent opportunities for snorkeling, swimming and close-up wildlife viewing. 8. Sportfishing charters — Join a fishing charter for world-class snapper and game fishing (marlin, kingfish), and enjoy fresh local seafood cooked ashore or on board.
Must-see places and experiences
69 Marsden Road, Paihia 0200, New Zealand
4.7★ (193 reviews)
Open in Maps76 School Road, Paihia 0200, New Zealand
4.5★ (181 reviews)
Open in Maps