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The Paparoa National Park is located on the West Coast of New Zealand near the town of Punakaiki.
background
The Paparoa National Park was established in 1987. The relatively small park is located on the west coast and extends from the coast of the Tasman Sea to the peaks of the Paparoa Range.
getting there
The park is located on the west coast of the South Island New Zealand between Westport in the north and Greymouth in the south. It is crossed by the SH 6. At the height of the pancake rocks there is a souvenir shop with information and a restaurant. The entrance to the popular rock is on the other side of the busy road.
Tourist Attractions
Although the rough landscape and the fascinating microclimate, which results from the mountain slopes rising steeply from the sea, invite you to linger for several days, most tourists only stop briefly at the ones located directly on the national road Pancake rocks.
Pancake rocks
This unique rock formation takes its name from characteristic structures that make the rocks look like piles of pancakes piled on top of each other. The exact geological origin has not yet been fully clarified. With a bit of luck, you will experience the rocks at high tide and strong westerly winds, which the sea water between the individual stones and partially through Blowholes pushes out upwards. Access to the rocks is handicapped accessible and leads through lush green vegetation to the gray karst rocks. It takes about half an hour for a leisurely circular route. In a few places, steps are difficult to access.
miscellaneous
- Caving. Several caves have also formed in the limestone near Punakaiki and in the hinterland of the park. Some of them are easily accessible. Torch and good footwear are required. There are fireflies in some of the caves.
- Hikes in the nature park on the Freedom Walk or on the Truman Track
activities
- River kayaking. On the Pororari River, boats are available for hire.
- Horse treks in the national park. More at the tourist information.
accommodation
- Punakaiki Resort, near the pancake rocks.
security
An important clue. Between Westport and Greymouth is a distance of nearly one hundred kilometers no gas station. Since the area is also very mountainous and gasoline consumption can increase significantly, drivers should make sure that they have a sufficiently filled tank beforehand. The operators of the small restaurant on the Pancakerocks will of course be happy to help out in an emergency - at appropriate prices.
