Pancake Rocks and Blowholes

The Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki were created when the sea bed was raised above sea level by earthquakes to form the rugged coastal cliffs of the West Coast's coastline. The sea, rain and wind have since eroded the rocks to create the unique formations that now look like a stack of pancakes. 

When conditions are right (around high tide), the ocean swells into the caverns beneath the rocks and blasts the water high up into the air through the blowholes.

We stop here on the Stray bus so you have time to do this amazing walk! 

Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Walk

Distance: 1.1km loop
Time to complete: 20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Start & finish point: Opposite the Visitor Centre

Track info: This great little loop walk takes you through native coastal vegetation around the famous limestone formations with excellent viewpoints of the blowholes and surge pools below.

It's suitable for walking in all weather conditions, but remember to stick to the paved path as the rocks are both fragile and dangerous. To top it all off, across the road from the loop track's access point, you'll find a little cafe that serves great pancakes!