The Hole Experience

The Hole Experience – Heli and Cultural Tour

For the first time in New Zealand’s history and exclusive to Salt Air in conjunction with the Motu Kōkako Ahu whenua Trust, we can now offer an unforgettable adventure to set foot on top of the iconic Hole in the Rock – Motu Kōkako.

Flight Description

For many years visitors have come to the Bay of Islands to venture through this top New Zealand icon the Hole in the Rock on boats, we have flown them over it thousands of times, and it has been admired by many for its unique appearance and history.

Now, with the formal blessing of Motu Kokako Ahuwhenua Trust, you can experience it up close and on foot, landing by helicopter on our exclusive helipad on top of the island.

Visitors have the option to land on the island with a 15-minute stop guided by the pilot, or be hosted on the island by a local Maori Guide, who will share the islands’ unique history and its cultural and ecological significance.

Very few people in history, including Maori, have ever ventured on the island in this way before. Being surrounded by steep cliffs (over 150 metres high) and stunning scenery looking towards Cape Brett and its surrounds, this unique landing location will no doubt appeal to the adventurous.

The adventure of the scenic flight, exciting landing on the Hole in the Rock and cultural aspects will combine to reward visitors with a thrilling and utterly unique New Zealand experience. Choose from one of our 3 options below to experience this unique adventure.

Things to know:

Minimum of 2 passengers

Departure times are booked on demand, subject to weather conditions

Departure is from our Paihia helipad

Option with the Maori Guide may not be available for short notice bookings


Welcome to Motu Kokako by the Ancestral Owners


This tour left me with a feeling of privilege, emotion and awe…without a doubt one of the best things I have ever done.

35 Min Experience NZ$429pp*

Bay of Islands helicopter scenic flight over the islands and to the Hole in the Rock from Paihia and return

Landing on the the island, stay on top of the island for approx 15 mins to take in the incredible views with photo opportunities

45 Min Experience NZ$480pp*

Extra 10 mins of flying
An extended Bay of Islands helicopter scenic flight from Paihia and return

Landing on the the island, stay on top of the island for approx 15 mins to take in the incredible views with photo opportunities

Guided 1 Hour NZ$655pp*

Bay of Islands helicopter scenic flight from Paihia and return with a Maori Guide to the Hole in the Rock

Landing on the island to experience a short walk and cultural tour with the guide for approximately 30 minutes

*Fuel surcharges of $5pp currently apply

History of Motu Kōkako

“Motu Kōkako” is the Maori name for the motu / island, the origin of which is said to have eventuated in ancient times and literally translated means Kokako Island. The Kokako is a bird that once inhabited the motu, whose feathers were valued by Ngapuhi. Historically, young male warriors would journey to Motu Kōkako and climb its steep cliffs to gather Kokako feathers for their Korowai (feathered cloak). The motu has also been known as Piercy Island, a name given by Captain James Cook.

Bio-diversity of Motu Kōkako

Although small, in terms of conservation it is probably the most important island in the Bay of Islands’ (Taylor et Al 1991), University of Auckland Botany Dept. The unique bio-diversity of the island is apparent with over 90 species of vascular plants, no predators and the island being ‘naturally’ pest-free.