Things to do in Punakaiki
Our favorite activities in Punakaiki
Truman beach
Discover the Truman beach and watch the limestone cliffs lighten up when the sun goes down. The Truman beach is the perfect spot to experience a magnificent sunset.
From the Te Nikau Retreat a private track leads you to the Truman track in just 5 minutes - take your time and go for a wee walk along the beach to a big rock-overhang on the other side.
Keep an eye out for greenstone and wildlife such as native birds and seals.
Pororari river walk
This is the first part of the new Paparoa Great Walk and is truly an amazing walk through lush, green bush with thousands of Nikau Palms.
It’s about an hour to the first swing-bridge (1 hour) where you can either walk a little bit further, turn around or make a loop out of your trip and walk back to the Paparoa Walk car park via the Pancake Rocks (3 hours). Suitable for all ages and fitness-levels.
Pancake Rocks & Blowholes
The world famous Pancake Rocks in Punakaiki are spectacular and unique. They were formed 30 million years ago from minute fragments of dead marine creatures and plants landed on the seabed about 2 km below the surface. Immense water pressure caused the fragments to solidify in hard and soft layers. Gradually seismic action lifted the limestone above the seabed. Mildly acidic rain, wind and seawater sculpted the bizarre shapes.
This short, paved walk takes about 20 minutes, suitable for all ages and fitness-levels. It’s also wheelchair friendly.
Walks in the area
The Punakaiki area offers many walks suitable for all ages and fitness-levels. Every walk is very unique - but all of them are beautiful. Going on a walk here will show you the true west coast bush, native birds and give you an unforgettable experience.
We’re happy to recommend walks that suit you and even offer free shuttle-service to some of them (please contact us if you need a ride, subject of availability).