Cape Brett and Hole in the Rock

Overview

Cape Brett is a prominent headland in the Bay of Islands, known for its dramatic coastline and the iconic Hole in the Rock. This natural archway is a popular spot for boat tours and scenic cruises, offering stunning views and opportunities to spot dolphins and other marine life.

Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock are significant for their natural beauty and geological formations. The area is also culturally important to the local Māori people.

Scenic View Boat Tour Wildlife Watching

Location

Address

Bay of Islands, Northland

Neighborhood: Bay of Islands

Coordinates

-35.300000, 174.116700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$20 (for visitor center and walking trails)

Children

$10 (5-15 years)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

October to April

Best Time of Day

Mid-morning

Best light for photography and fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour (for a quick visit)

Recommended

3-4 hours (for a boat tour and exploration)

Full Experience

Full day (including other Bay of Islands attractions)

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild, pleasant

• Wildflowers
• Migratory birds

summer

Warm, sunny

• Extended daylight
• Warm temperatures

autumn

Mild, cooling

• Fall colors
• Cool breezes

winter

Cold, rainy

• Storm watching
• Cozy indoor spots

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book boat tours in advance
Bring sunscreen and a hat
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

Sun protection Camera Sturdy shoes

seasonal

Rain jacket Swimwear (in summer)

not allowed

Drones (without permission) Large backpacks

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate (for hiking)

• Uneven terrain
• Strong winds

Medical facilities: Nearest hospital is 30 minutes away

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit/Debit cards

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Typical Costs

boat tour $100

parking $5

food $15-$30

souvenirs $10-$50

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable, Layers for changing weather, Comfortable walking shoes, Inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• At least 1 week for boat tours
• Official tourism websites or local operators
• Varies by operator, usually 24-48 hours
• Book tours in advance

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Bay of Islands Explorer

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Tour information, Ticket booking

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Some cafes

Charging Stations: Limited availability

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Kerikeri Airport (KKE)

Distance: 35 km

Travel Time: 40 minutes

taxi

$80 40 min

public_transport

$10 1 hour

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

walking

25 min

taxi

$15 5 min

bicycle

10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Stunning natural beauty, rich history, and cultural significance

Historical Significance: Important Māori and colonial history

Insider Tips

Best views from the top of Cape Brett
Local cafes offer great coffee and pastries
Early morning boat tours have the best chance of seeing dolphins

Local Recommendations

• Try local seafood
• Visit the nearby Waitangi Treaty Grounds
• Explore the historic village of Russell

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Kia ora

thank_you Ngā mihi

where_is Kei hea

how_much Te hea te utu

beautiful Hauhake

ticket Tikitanga

Guide Languages: English, Māori, Other languages depending on the tour

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Hole in the Rock

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the arch

Result: Iconic landscape photo

#BayOfIslands #NewZealand #HoleInTheRock

Dolphin Bay

Best Time: Morning

Tips: Panoramic shots

Result: Beautiful seascape

#DolphinBay #ScenicNewZealand

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Viewpoints

prohibited areas Private property

flash photography Allowed outdoors, not in sensitive areas

commercial photography Permit required

drone policy Permit required

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Distance: 5 km

Walking: 1 hour

Type: Historical Site

Russell Historic Village

Distance: 10 km

Walking: 2 hours

Type: Historic Village

Haruru Falls

Distance: 3 km

Walking: 40 min

Type: Waterfall

Reviews

4.7

Based on 5,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book a boat tour for the best experience"
"Visit early for fewer crowds"
"Bring a jacket for windy conditions"

Contact Information

+64 9 402 7379

info@bayofislands.co.nz

www.bayofislands.co.nz

Social Media

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