Wave Watchers Retreat accommodation in Punakaiki, New Zealand
Punakaiki - Pancake Rocks & Blowholes
The Rocks
The Pancake Rocks, Punakaiki, are a unique natural attraction on New Zealand's South Island West Coast. Layers of water sculpted limestone, resembling stacks of pancakes, form a fantastic tableau - made even more dramatic by the shooting geysers of sea spray often evident at high tides.These geysers come from the blowholes - water worn passages through which jets of seawater are forced in high seas. Quite awesome displays of rushing spray can be seen on many days of the year - because of the Tasman Seas' powerful wave action.
The Pathway
The sealed track is very well maintained and is suitable, with some assistance, for wheelchairs. The Department of Conservation has installed information boards at locations of interest along the track.
At the coastline the track has many lookouts and areas for fantastic photos to be taken of the Pancake Rocks, blowholes and beautiful views of the coast and mountains.
The Blowholes
The blowholes, the main attraction of the walkway, are active at high tide - check in at the Department of Conservation Visitors Centre for times. When a heavy sea swell is running, saltwater is pushed at great force through holes in the limestone rock, exiting as a fine spray mist many meters above sealevel. The blowholes at full blast are an amazing sight.
Time
Allow approximately 45 minutes to explore and take photographs. Aoraki, Mt. Cook is sometimes visible far to the south and it is not uncommon to spy a pod of Hectors dolphin close to the rocks.
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