Hole in the Rock (Piercy Island) – Northland & Bay of Islands

18m Max

8-20m Vis

boat

Site Overview

Hole in the Rock at Piercy Island is one of New Zealand's most iconic natural landmarks and a wonderful dive site that combines scenic beauty, seal encounters, and accessible marine exploration in the heart of the Bay of Islands. The famous hole is a natural tunnel carved through Piercy Island by centuries of wave action, and the surrounding waters offer excellent diving and snorkelling opportunities with resident New Zealand fur seals that are naturally curious and playful. The rocky walls around the island are covered in colourful algae, sponges, and encrusting organisms that support a diverse community of reef fish including blue maomao, demoiselles, and moray eels. The underwater cave systems and swim-throughs around the island provide exciting exploration at accessible depths, while the rocky reef extends to approximately 18 metres on the outer walls. Macro life is surprisingly diverse with nudibranchs, octopus, and small reef fish inhabiting the crevices and overhangs. The Hole in the Rock is also a major tourist attraction, with boat cruises transiting the tunnel throughout the day, so diving is best planned for early morning or late afternoon to avoid boat traffic. Despite the tourist activity, the underwater experience remains peaceful and the seal interactions are genuinely memorable, making this an ideal site for divers of all levels and for mixed groups with non-diving companions.

Dive Briefing

"The dive begins on the sheltered side of Piercy Island, descending along the rocky wall from approximately 3 metres. The wall is covered in colourful algae and sponges with demoiselles and blue maomao swimming among the boulders. Follow the wall in a clockwise direction around the island, exploring overhangs and small cave systems that harbour moray eels and octopus. New Zealand fur seals are frequently encountered along the reef, often approaching divers with playful curiosity. The seals are wild animals, so avoid chasing or touching them. Continue around the island to the area near the famous Hole in the Rock tunnel, where the rocky bottom at 10 to 15 metres provides excellent macro opportunities with nudibranchs and small fish. The outer wall drops to 18 metres with colourful sponge gardens and gorgonian growth. Return along the shallower reef crest at 5 to 8 metres where the light creates beautiful patterns on the rocky substrate. The safety stop is conducted near the descent point with the possibility of seal visits during the final minutes of the dive. Monitor boat traffic carefully, especially near the tunnel entrance."