Steller: Create Beautiful Social Media Stories

Punakaiki

Punakaiki is where the sea puts on a show against limestone. At Pancake Rocks, waves surge through blowholes and burst upward, with rainforest close behind the coast.

Recommendations

Landmark4.8/5

Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Track

Come one, come all to the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Track in Punakaiki, New Zealand! This must-see traveler's gem promises a sensational landscape of unique limestone formations resembling stacks of pancakes (did someone say breakfast?). But wait, there's more! Prepare to be amazed as waves crash into the rocks, shooting water high into the air through blowholes. A truly spectacular feast for the senses!

Landmark4.5/5

Punakaiki Cavern

Nestled near Punakaiki, the Punakaiki Cavern boasts stunning limestone formations and an enchanting underground river, making it a must-visit destination for adventurous explorers seeking the beauty of New Zealand’s natural wonders.

Landmark4.9/5

Truman Track

Embark on an exhilarating adventure along Truman Track, nestled along the stunning Coast Road in Te Miko! This enchanting 1.5 km trail boasts breathtaking coastal views, lush forests, and dramatic cliffs. Perfect for families and solo explorers alike, keep your eyes peeled for playful seals and vibrant birdlife. Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to soak in nature’s splendor!

Cafe$$$3.8/5

Pancake Rocks Cafe

Nestled along the breathtaking Coast Road, Pancake Rocks Cafe offers stunning views of the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes, making it a must-visit stop for delicious fare and unforgettable coastal scenery in Punakaiki.

Stays

Stay$$4.15/5

Paparoa Park Motel

Paparoa Park Motel is situated in Punakaiki. Boasting luggage storage space, some units at the property have a balcony with a sea view. All guest rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a kettle, a shower, free toiletries and a wardrobe. Rooms are complete with a private bathroom equipped with a hair dryer, while selected rooms have a patio. Guest rooms are fitted with a seating area. The motel offers a terrace. Hiking is among the activities that guests can enjoy near Paparoa Park Motel. Punakaiki Scenic Attraction is 200 metres from the accommodation. The nearest airport is Hokitika Airport, 82 km from the property.

Stay$4.75/5

Punakaiki Beach Hostel

Located in Punakaiki Village,1 km from the Pancake Rocks and Blowhole, Punakaiki Beach Hostel is within meters of the sea wall walkway and sea. The commanding cliffs which overlook PBH are majestic. The Hostel features attractive gardens with outdoor seating to enjoy the beautiful sunsets. Activities in the area include hiking and biking with easy access to the Paparoa National Park Track one of NZ'S top Great Walks. Enjoy Kayaking, fishing, swimming or simply the wonderful restful beach atmosphere. All windows have insect screens.

Stay$3.75/5

Te Nikau Retreat

Wake up to the sound of waves from the sea and birds singing in the trees. Just 3 km North of the Pancake Rocks, Te Nikau Retreat offers a range of unique accommodation for everyone - self-contained cottages, Lodges and private rooms. Every building is nestled in the native west coast bush connected by paths. Fresh linen, bedding and towels are provided in all rooms. Internet access is available in all rooms. In 8 minutes you can walk on a private path to the Truman beach - popular for its scenic views and spectacular sunsets. Te Nikau Retreat is a 40-minute drive from Greymouth, a 50 minute drive from Westport and a 3-hour drive from the glaciers. Central Nelson is a 4.5-hour drive away. The closest shops and petrol stations are located in Westport and Greymouth, both a 40-minute drive from the property.

Stay$$$3.55/5

Punakaiki Rocks Hotel & Garden Bar

Punakaiki Rocks Hotel & Garden Bar in Punakaiki offers family-friendly rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and mountain views. Each room includes a tea and coffee maker, refrigerator, and free toiletries. The traditional restaurant serves local cuisine with vegetarian options. Guests can enjoy lunch and dinner in a welcoming ambience. An à la carte breakfast is available daily. The hotel features a bar, outdoor seating area, picnic spots, sun terrace, and garden. Free WiFi is accessible throughout the property. Punakaiki Beach is just a few steps away. Westport Airport is 58 km from the hotel. Activities such as fishing, hiking, and cycling are nearby.

Stay4.9/5

Punakaiki Escapes

Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Punakaiki, Punakaiki Escapes offers unique accommodations that blend luxury with nature, featuring breathtaking views of the famous Pancake Rocks and lush rainforests, making it an unforgettable getaway.

Stay4.3/5

Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

Things To Do
Provided by

5/5

168 h

Small Group Southern Loop 7 Days Tour

New Zealand’s South Island hosts the purest natural landscapes you’ll ever experience. From the turquoise waters in Abel Tasman, pods of dolphins in Kaikoura and world famous wineries, discover nature's best on our Southern Loop adventure.

$1,398.59

5/5

9 h

Full Day Tour of the Sights and Tastes of the West Coast

This tour gives you the chance to relax and enjoy the sights and tastes along our route through the Grey and Buller districts, although a moderate fitness is required as you walk around firstly Punakaiki and then up to the seal colony. See the coastal Highway, among the top 10 highways in the world. Discover the delights the West Coast has to offer in scenery and less well known treats such as the Shortjaw brewery (Tuesday to Saturday) or Historic mining areas. Let your driver do all the work while you admire the views, sample beer and spirits or learn a bit about the natural environment and local history that makes the West Coast a unique and "must see" part of your visit. Sundays in summer we may stop at the Fox River Market.

$197.80

5/5

264 h

11 Day Deep South Tour (Christchurch to Christchurch)

Thinking about an 11-day South Island loop from Christchurch? Named after the Takahē, a treasured national bird with vibrant blue-green plumage, once thought to be extinct. This tour offers you unparalleled flexibility, you can start in Christchurch, Picton or Wellington! Our expert guides will take you around the South Island’s highlights and hidden gems in style. Kick off with Abel Tasman's golden beaches and Coastal Track hikes, kayaking turquoise coves. Marvel at Punakaiki's Pancake Rock, then trek Franz Josef's glacier face. Snap the iconic Wānaka tree, then play in our adventure capital, Queenstown, hikes, Fergburgers and nightlife buzz! Cruise past Milford Sound's jaw dropping waterfall, trek the famous Kepler track, then stargaze beneath Aoraki/Mt Cook. Finish off your epic journey with a soak in Tekapo's hot pools and visit the Church of the Good Shepherd. All from the comfort of 3-4 star hotels! Hop on the Takahe Select Tour. Which stop is calling your name?

$2,731.45

4.9/5

3 h

Punakaiki Blow Holes & Pancake Rocks Scenic Tour

Tour with our local knowledgeable guides to one of the World's Top 10 Coastal Scenic drives and visit the famous Punakaiki Blow Holes and Pancake Rocks. One of the regions key icons and a must do when visiting the South Island.

$104.14

4.9/5

8 h

West Coast Full Day Tour

This tour offers the best of the central West Coast including the most seen hot spots and all in a day! Perfect if you have short time on the West Coast and want to see as much as possible. Please contact us direct if you are a single person bookings for us to check availability of tour.

$214.68

4.8/5

9 h

Castle Hill & Arthur Pass Day Trip From Christchurch

Discover one of New Zealand’s most dramatic alpine landscapes on this unforgettable full-day adventure to Arthur’s Pass National Park. Journey from the Canterbury plains into rugged mountain country, explore ancient limestone formations, hike to a spectacular waterfall, and meet our famous alpine parrots — the playful Kea! This is the perfect day escape for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers wanting to experience the raw beauty of the Southern Alps.

$174.53

240 h

10 Days and 9 Nights New Zealand South Island Tour

This tour offers a seamless New Zealand experience with 4-star stays, a luxury Mercedes van with a professional driver/guide, and handpicked activities like the Milford Sound cruise, Rotorua spa, and Queenstown adventures—all included. We focus on comfort, local insights, and stress-free travel so you can fully enjoy the best of both North and South Islands.

$3,781.56

336 h

14 Day Scenic New Zealand Discovery Private Tour

Discover New Zealand’s greatest wonders in one unforgettable journey—from glowworm caves and steaming geothermal pools to soaring glaciers, dramatic fjords, and star-filled skies. Drift through glowworm-lit caverns, walk at the foot of ancient glaciers, and stand beneath the clearest night skies on Earth. From Rotorua’s geothermal marvels to Fiordland’s fjords, Napier’s vineyards to Kaikoura’s wild seal colonies, each day reveals a new chapter of discovery. With private transfers, boutique stays, and handpicked activities, you’ll enjoy a seamless blend of iconic highlights and hidden gems. Whether it’s sipping wine by the sea, stargazing, or riding the legendary TranzAlpine train, New Zealand will capture your heart and take your breath away. This tour is the ultimate New Zealand story, written just for you.

$10,052.09

4 h 30 mins

Half Day West Coast Highlights

The unique rock formations of Punakaiki and the beauty of the Coast Road and the Cape Foulwind/Tauranga Bay Seal Colony are not to be missed.

$110.54

360 h

New Zealand Grand Hikes Guided Tour - Hiking New Zealand -15 Days

From cruising ice-carved fiords to summiting volcanoes, this is the full Aotearoa New Zealand experience. Journey from north to south in a small group, with expert Kiwi guides who bring the land, its culture and history to life. Hike a mix of day walks and short trails through New Zealand’s most beautiful wilderness — choose a challenging alpine crossing or an easy beach stroll to suit you. Wander glow worm caves, golden-sand beaches and limestone canyons, take in the peaks and lakes of the Southern Alps, and cruise beneath Milford Sound’s sheer cliffs. Each night, settle into handpicked hotels and lodges and enjoy wonderful meals of fresh local flavours. Perfect for those who love hiking and their creature comforts.

$9,599.34

576 h

Ultimate New Zealand Guided Tour - Hiking New Zealand - 24 Days

Explore the stunning landscapes of New Zealand on a comprehensive 24-day hiking adventure that traverses both the North and South Islands. This journey includes multi-day hikes through eight national parks, from the geothermal wonders of Rotorua to the breathtaking fjords of Milford Sound. Experience a unique Kiwi-style camaraderie by staying in backcountry huts and camping under the stars while tackling diverse terrains. With expert guides sharing local insights, you'll enjoy hearty meals and the joys of outdoor living in a small group setting. - 24-day guided hiking tour from Auckland to Queenstown - Multi-day hikes in 8 National Parks including Tongariro and Aoraki/Mt Cook - Stay in comfortable lodgings and enjoy communal meals - Suitable for reasonably fit outdoor enthusiasts; no prior multi-day hiking experience required

$7,679.47

1 h 30 mins

1.5 Hour Guided Nature Walk on the Truman Track Bush to Beach

Welcome! Join me on this great short walk called the Truman track. This trip is for you if you are looking for a pleasant, relaxed and educational afternoon walk to stretch the legs have a chat and share stories all in a stunning raw natural landscape, from untouched forest to rugged coastline. I offer insights into the Flora/Fauna and the regions diverse history. I intend to simply enjoy our time out in this stunning place and share my enthusiasm, knowledge. I will meet you at the Truman track carpark carrying with me all for hot drinks, a surprise snack and an umbrella if we might need it. Look forward to meeting you, Jake.

$55.27

2 h 30 mins

2.5 hr Guided Walk Pororari River Track

Welcome! Join me to enjoy, share stories and discover the beauty of Paparoa National Park on a 2.5-hour guided riverside nature walk. I offer insights into the local flora/fauna, History of the area as well as other interesting nuggets of information along the way. We will be walking the Pororari River track with the intention to simply enjoy our time out there and get a deeper understanding of this epic place. I will have some umbrellas to offer you if it might rain and will bring all for hot drinks and a surprise snack. Look forward to meeting you. Jake. - 2.5-hour guided nature walk in Paparoa National Park - Learn about local flora and fauna from an experienced guide - Refreshments and snacks included - umbrella available upon request