Punakaiki Rocks – The Famous Pancake Rocks & Blowholes

On Aotearoa – New Zealand’s wild West Coast, Punakaiki Rocks are a natural wonder that captures both the power and mystery of the land. Known as the Pancake Rocks, these unique limestone formations look like giant stacks of breakfast pancakes, carved over millions of years by wind, water and salt spray. Add in the booming blowholes and you’ve got one of the West Coast’s most photographed and loved stops.

🌊 Why Visit Punakaiki

Punakaiki is more than a quick stop — it’s a place where geology and ocean power collide. At high tide, waves crash through underground caverns and explode through the blowholes, sending spray metres into the air. Even at low tide, the unusual limestone stacks, coastal views and thundering surf are unforgettable. The 20-minute loop walk is easy and accessible with boardwalks winding past viewpoints, native bush and sheer cliffs.

📍 Where It Is & A Little History

Punakaiki sits in the heart of Paparoa National Park, about 45 minutes north of Greymouth and 50 minutes south of Westport. The rocks are thought to be around 30 million years old, formed from layers of marine organisms compacted on the seafloor. Over time, tectonic uplift raised the seabed, while rain and waves eroded the softer layers, leaving behind the “pancake stack” look.

The area also has deep significance to Ngāti Waewae, the local iwi, who lived along this coastline, gathering food and navigating the wild seas. Today, Punakaiki continues to draw travellers from all over the world while remaining a treasured part of local heritage.

🥾 Good to Know Before You Go

• Best Time to Visit: Plan around high tide if you want to see the blowholes in full action. Tide charts are available at the DOC visitor centre.
• Walking Track: The loop is short (20 minutes) and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, making it one of the most accessible attractions on the Coast.
• Facilities: There’s a DOC visitor centre, public toilets, car parking and a café. The village itself is small but has a few local eateries.
• Nearby Highlights: Don’t miss the Truman Track, a 30-minute return walk through lush forest to a wild beach with caves, rock pools and often spectacular sunsets.

📸 Tips for Visiting

• Arrive early or later in the evening to avoid tour buses and enjoy a quieter experience.
• Bring a rain jacket — the spray from the blowholes can travel further than you expect.
• Sunset light along the cliffs is stunning for photos, with the layered rocks glowing in golden hues.

🌿 More Things to Do Around Punakaiki

If you’ve made the trip out here, it’s worth spending more time. Punakaiki and the surrounding Paparoa National Park offer plenty of activities beyond the Pancake Rocks:

• Truman Track – A short 30-minute return walk through lush native bush to a wild beach, complete with caves, blowholes and dramatic sunsets.
• Pororari River Track – A beautiful trail following a limestone gorge with towering cliffs and nikau palms. Perfect for walking, biking or even kayaking.
• Paparoa Track (Great Walk) – New Zealand’s newest Great Walk begins near Punakaiki, taking multi-day trampers across alpine tops and through rainforest.
• Horse Trekking – Guided treks along the beach and river valleys, offering a unique way to experience the wild coastline.
• Kayaking & Caving – Paddle the calm waters of the Pororari River or join a local caving adventure to explore the limestone underworld.
• Local Eats – Stop in at Punakaiki Tavern for a hearty meal, or try a coffee and slice at the small cafés near the visitor centre.

✨ Final Thought

Punakaiki might be a small village but its rocks are a big West Coast highlight. Stand on the boardwalk, hear the roar of the ocean below and feel the salt spray — it’s a reminder of just how raw and powerful Te Tai Poutini really is. Stay longer if you can, explore the short walks nearby and you’ll find this stop is far more than a photo opportunity.

🌊 Want to see more of Punakaiki without the hassle? Book a guided Punakaiki tour here

🌍 Travel Planning Resources

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