Punakaiki is on the South Island’s West Coast. To get there you will drive along the ‘Coast Road’ which is one of the most spectacular coastal drives in the world. The Punakaiki township is quant and friendly with cafes, craft shops, a visitor centre and plenty of parking.
Famous for its spectacular Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. The limestone formations were formed 30 million years ago! Today, around high tide, the ocean swells force large amounts of water and compressed air to race upward through the vertical shafts. The result is a hissing, thunderous raw that creates a geyser-like plumes of salt water. In a strong westerly swell, this creation of nature is a very impressive sight.
Other activities include horse trekking, canoe adventures, caving and guided tours plus many more things to see and do.