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!"
Where wild coast meets genuine local insight
Visit Punakaiki exists to help you experience one of New Zealand’s most remarkable coastal landscapes in a way that feels effortless, authentic, and unforgettable. Set on the edge of Paparoa National Park, Punakaiki is a place where lush rainforest meets dramatic limestone cliffs, powerful ocean swells, and some of the most unique natural formations in the country.
We bring together everything you need to explore this special part of the West Coast – from local accommodation and experiences to insider knowledge on the best walks, hidden spots, and must-see moments like the iconic Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Whether you’re passing through or staying a while, our goal is simple: to connect you with the people, places, and experiences that make Punakaiki truly memorable.
Rooted in the local community, Visit Punakaiki is more than just a guide – it’s your starting point for discovering the raw beauty, quiet charm, and untamed spirit of this extraordinary destination.
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.
- Pororari River Track
- The Truman Track
- The Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
- Te Korowai o Punangairi walkway & lookout
- Punakaiki to Pororari River Loop
Check out the Paparoa Experience at the Punangairi Visitor Centre
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.
