Bay of Islands: Helicopter Tour & Hole in the Rock Landing

Summary

Soar above Bay of Islands and land atop Hole in the Rock for rare views

You’ll fly by helicopter over Bay of Islands with a local guide sharing stories as you pass Russell, Paihia, and Waitangi. Hover above Cape Brett before landing right on top of the iconic Hole in the Rock for rare views and quiet moments most people never get to experience.

What’s the experience like?

“Is that really where we’re landing?” I asked, probably louder than I meant to, as our pilot grinned and pointed out toward the Hole in the Rock. The rotors were already humming, salty air sneaking in through the open door while Paihia shrank below us. I could see Russell’s rooftops glinting in the sun — tiny, almost toy-like from up here. Our guide, Mike (he grew up around here), started telling stories about Waitangi as we banked over turquoise water so clear you could spot shadows of boats drifting between islands.

The Bay of Islands looks different from above — like someone spilled a handful of emeralds into blue glass. There was a moment when we hovered near Cape Brett and I caught this wild smell, half ocean spray and half pine from somewhere onshore. Mike kept up a steady stream of local history, but honestly, I got distracted by how small everything felt. He pointed out Motuarohia Island and told us Captain Cook once anchored there — I tried to imagine what it looked like then. It’s weirdly peaceful up there, just us and the sound of blades slicing air.

Landing on top of the Hole in the Rock is one of those things that doesn’t feel real until your feet hit solid ground. The rock’s rough under your shoes — not smooth at all — and gulls wheel around screeching like they own the place (which maybe they do). We took photos but mostly just stood quietly for a minute, wind tugging at our jackets. On the way back to Paihia, Mike laughed about my white knuckles gripping the seatbelt — “You’ll remember this more than any postcard,” he said. He’s probably right. I still think about that view when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bay of Islands scenic helicopter tour

• Fly over Bay of Islands
• View Cape Brett and islands
• See Hole in the Rock from air
• Pass over Russell, Paihia, Waitangi
• Optionally land on Hole in the Rock

Top questions

How long is the Bay of Islands helicopter tour?

The exact duration isn’t listed, but flights cover all main islands plus time over Cape Brett and Hole in the Rock.

Does this helicopter tour include landing on Hole in the Rock?

Yes, you have an opportunity to land on top of Hole in the Rock during this tour.

Where does the scenic helicopter flight depart from?

The helicopter tour departs from Paihia in Bay of Islands.

Is there commentary during the flight?

Yes, your pilot provides live commentary throughout the scenic flight.

Are infants allowed on this helicopter tour?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during the flight.

Do I need to be physically fit for this tour?

This tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Is there a minimum number of passengers required?

A minimum of 2 passengers is required for each flight to confirm departure.

Can I choose my departure time for this Bay of Islands helicopter tour?

You can request your preferred departure time; they’ll try to confirm something close if available.

What’s included

Your day includes a scenic helicopter flight over Bay of Islands with live commentary from your pilot as you pass Russell, Paihia, Waitangi and Cape Brett — plus a unique landing atop Hole in the Rock before returning to Paihia at your requested time.