Paparoa National Park, New Zealand
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| Pancake Rocks |
Paparoa National Park is located on the west coast of New Zealand's South Island. Established in 1987, the park covers approximately 430 square kilometers (166 square miles) of diverse landscapes, from rugged coastline to lush rainforests, karst limestone formations, and dramatic mountain ranges.
The Paparoa Track runs through the park - one of the country's "Great Walks". Pancake Rocks on the coast are another popular sight in the park which is rich in birdlife.
The park was created in 1987, one of just two of New Zealand's 13 national parks established in the 1980s. The other is Whanganui National Park on North Island.
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| Punakaiki - layered limestone formations resembling stacks of pancakes rise from the coastline |
History
The park was established to protect its unique geological features, flora, and fauna, as well as its cultural heritage. The area has deep significance to the Māori people, particularly the Ngāti Waewae hapū of the Ngāi Tahu iwi. In pre-European times, it was a rich source of pounamu (greenstone), a material highly valued by Māori for tools, weapons, and ornaments.
European settlers later mined the region for gold and coal, leaving behind remnants of mining activity that are now part of the area's historical heritage. The national park designation was introduced to preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of this beautiful region.
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| Paparoa National Park |
Attractions
Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
The park's most famous attraction is Punakaiki, where layered limestone formations resembling stacks of pancakes rise from the coastline. During high tide, seawater surges through blowholes, creating dramatic spray displays.
Limestone Karst Landscapes
Paparoa National Park is renowned for its limestone formations, including caves, sinkholes, and dramatic cliffs. The karst topography is home to extensive cave systems, some of which, like the Metro Cave, are accessible for guided tours.
Paparoa Track
Opened in 2019, this Great Walk is a multi-day hiking and biking trail that traverses the park, offering breathtaking views of the Tasman Sea, rainforest-clad valleys, and rugged peaks. It also commemorates the 2010 Pike River Mine disaster.
Flora and Fauna
The park's dense forests are dominated by native plants such as nikau palms, rimu, and southern rata. It is also a haven for native bird species, including the tūī, kererū, and the endangered great spotted kiwi.
Rivers and Gorges
The Pororari and Punakaiki Rivers carve through the park, creating picturesque gorges and offering opportunities for kayaking and river walks.
The main Department of Conservation (DOC) Visitor Centre with information on the park is across the road from Pancake Rocks (Dolomite Point). By car, it is 45 minutes north of Greymouth and 60 minutes south of Westport on State Highway 6.
4294 Coast Road
Punakaiki
RD 1 Runanga 7873
Tel: (03) 731 1895
Accommodation
Some places to stay within the area include the Scenic Hotel Punakaiki, just 300 metres from the magnificent Pancake Rocks and Blowholes.
The Punakaiki Rocks Hotel & Garden Bar offers a garden, free private parking, a restaurant and a bar.
The Paparoa Beach Hideaway with Hot Tub provides guests with an outdoor fireplace. The holiday home also offers free WiFi, free private parking and facilities for disabled guests.
Find accommodation in Paparoa National Park.
Access - Getting There
Paparoa National Park lies between the towns of Westport and Greymouth, with the Tasman Sea forming its western boundary. It is easily accessible via State Highway 6 and serves as a popular destination for both domestic and international visitors.
The nearest major airport is Christchurch about 160 km away. The nearest airport with scheduled flights is at Westport 55 km to the north.
Hokitika (HKK) Airport is 34.5 km away and has some flights to Christchurch.
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