Overlooking the Bay of Islands and the Pacific Ocean, Cape Brett is a remote and remarkable part of New Zealand’s coastline. Trek 10 scenic miles (16 kilometers) to the tip of the peninsula, or take a day cruise or speedboat to the cape’s famous Hole in the Rock, a natural rock tunnel that comfortably fits the boats that sail there and back.
Cape Brett is one of Northland’s most challenging and rewarding hiking trails. Head out from Rawhiti to the Cape Brett Lighthouse, stopping by Deep Water Cove for swimming and snorkeling. Day cruises or speedboats can take you from the Bay of Islands to the cape. Sail around Motukokako Island, named for an endangered native bird species, and through the Hole in the Rock, which you can also see via a scenic helicopter tour.
To hike the Cape Brett Track, apply in advance for a walking permit from New Zealand’s Department of Conservation. You will also need to pay a track maintenance fee.
The Cape Brett Track is long and difficult, so take the necessary safety equipment and book a bunk at Cape Brett Hut, so you can rest overnight before returning to the Bay of Islands.
Before and after hiking, thoroughly clean your gear to help prevent kauri dieback disease.
Cape Brett Hut doesn’t have a guaranteed water supply from December to April, so bring your own water for drinking and cooking.
Local Maori people have restricted fishing in the Deep Water Cove area, so don’t take any shellfish or cast any lines.
Join Cape Brett Track at Rawhiti, a 19-mile (31-kilometer) drive from Russell along Russell-Whakapara Road, Kempthorne Road, and Manawaora Road, or from the Deep Water Cove landing. Cruises and boat trips are available from Paihia. If driving to the cape, parking is available at 253 Rawhiti Road and Hartwells in Kaimarama Bay.
Northland has summery weather year-round, so just about any time is a good time to visit Cape Brett and Motukokako Island. Spring or fall might be slightly colder, but there are fewer tourists and more chances of water available at Cape Brett Hut.
In 2007, the New Zealand Navy frigate HMNZSCanterbury was scuttled in Deep Water Cove. The frigate now acts as an artificial reef for fish and coral, and as an underwater attraction for local snorkelers and divers. Bring your mask and snorkel, and investigate the wreck on your trek or cruise.