Punakaiki holidays are famous for Pancake Rocks and blowholes and the small settlement provides accommodation and refreshment for all visitors. The west coast settlement of Punakaiki is on the doorstep of the Paparoa National Park, which is full of secret caves, disappearing streams and river gorges. Punakaiki is also the closest population centre to the amazing Pancake Rocks and accompanying blowholes.
The rocks are the result of a layering and weathering process; to see the blow holes in action, aim to visit around high tide. At Punakaiki you’ll find a variety of accommodation, from hostels and homestays to self-contained cottages; there’s also a range of eating places and galleries. Local operators provide horse treks, canoe hire, caving, guided walks and rafting adventures.