New Zealand · Bay of Islands

Hole in the Rock

Also known as: Motukokako, Piercy Island

Best time to dive

October to May

What you might see

  • Moray eelLikely
  • NudibranchLikely

Sightings are seasonal probabilities, not promises - even in peak season nature does its own thing.

Certification & difficulty

Technical - advanced conditions (currents/depth); dive within your training.

Snorkelling

Snorkel-friendly - Yes - Hole in the Rock itself is a well-known snorkel/swim-through and scenic cruise stop when calm; scuba sites nearby are deeper/current-exposed

Safety notes

Extreme, unpredictable currents around the arch; heavy tourist boat traffic overhead; black urchins covering cave floors; surge restricting rear-beach access at Keyhole Cave

Permits & fees

Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.

Location

Nearest hub: Cape Brett/Russell

This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand dive report. Coordinates are approximate.