Cross the Paparoas, follow emerald green rivers, visit remote beaches, lagoons and geological wonders, or watch the sunset from Punakaiki’s new lookout… exploring Punakaiki promises a feeling of wonder and tranquility.
Paparoa Great Walk and Pike 29 Memorial Track
Tramping and Mountain Biking in the heart of the Paparoas.
Beyond the most accessible trails Punakaiki is close to some lesser known tramping tracks and offers great opportunities for some alternative outdoor adventures.
On the Riverside Cabins, "We loved our stay in [the Riverside] cabin. It's totally immersed in a stunning flax forest with birds. The cabin and facilities were clean and just what we needed. It's also an absurdly short walk to the start of the Paparoa trail – highly recommend doing the first hour or so up the river. The whitebait fritters at the food truck on the campground are also first rate!"
Tim, Punakaiki Escapes
Accomodation
On the Pororari River Track, "Glorious end to the Paparoa Track – Such variety of sights and sounds in this section of track, easily accessible from the carpark. Suggest doing a clockwise loop."
Sally, Trip Advisor
Hiking
On Paddle 'N Carve, "Cannot recommend the Paddle'n'Carve experience enough. Such beautiful views on the river whilst on an adventure to search for good stones that will make a great necklace. Our crew had the best time and came away with memorabilia for life. Dion is an absolute legend and makes a cracking coffee to top it all off."
Liam, Google Reviews
Kayaking & Carving
On the Seascapes House "Quite possibly the most remarkable Airbnb I’ve ever had the pleasure of staying in. The location and view are just astonishing and is situated right near the Pancake Rocks. The house was spotless, cosy and if anything, presented even better in person than the photos. I cannot recommended this place enough to anyone and everyone who is making a trip down the west coast. If I could give more than 5 stars I would – thank you Jed for a truly awesome place!!"
Sam, Punakaiki Escapes
Accommodation
Common questions about visiting and exploring Punakaiki
If you’ve seen it during the day fossicking around camp or along the sidewalk it is more than likely another native flightless bird called the Weka. The Weka has a shorter beak and isn’t as shy as the Kiwi which is nocturnal meaning it comes out at night. The Weka are very curious and happy to come and steal anything lying stray around your campsite. Kiwi, which have very long beaks, are endangered and sightings are rare but some lucky hikers on the Paparoa Track have seen them outside their huts after dark.
Yes, the Pancake Rocks is easily walkable for all but one of our accommodation options which are around 1km from the track start or less. The exception is Treescapes, a lovely house tucked away in the bush, which is a short drive of a few minutes.
The blowholes are most spectacular at high tide. Check out a tide guide such as surf-forecast.com to pick your best time.
Yes, Punakaiki has many tracks which are easy to walk to from your accommodation and the tracks, Visitor Centre, cafes, pub/restaurant are all walkable from a shared pedestrian and cycle path.
The pancake rocks are layers upon layers of marine sediment from the seabed formed over millions of years and then forced up by earthquakes to the level we see them today.
Ready to start your adventure?
Exploring Punakaiki promises a feeling of wonder and tranquility. Book your epic walk now.
