New Zealand · West Coast
Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes
Layered limestone stacks and dramatic blowholes carved by 30 million years of Tasman Sea swell.
About Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes
At Dolomite Point in Paparoa National Park, the sea has carved limestone into bizarre stacks that look like piles of giant pancakes. On a big swell at high tide, surge channels and blowholes erupt with explosive bursts of spray.
An easy 20-minute loop track threads through the formations on sealed paths and viewing platforms, making it one of the most accessible 'wow' stops on the entire West Coast.
While You're There
What to See & Do
- The famous stacked-limestone Pancake Rocks
- Blowholes erupting on incoming tides
- Surge pools and natural rock arches
- Native nīkau palms lining the loop walk
- Tasman Sea views from the cliff-top platform
How We Can Arrange It
We'll Take Care of the Details
As your booking agent, Mercury Pacific can include Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes in your tailored itinerary. Here's what we'll handle and advise on so you can simply enjoy the experience:
Time your visit to high tide for the best blowhole action
The 1.1km loop is fully sealed and wheelchair friendly
Allow 45 minutes — including time at the viewpoints
Every detail — bookings, timings and transfers — is arranged for you as part of your Mercury Pacific tour.
When to Visit
Year-round; biggest blowhole displays follow westerly storms.
Include Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes in Your TourKeep Exploring
More in West Coast
Franz Josef Glacier
A 12km river of blue ice descending from the Southern Alps to within 250m of sea level.
Fox Glacier & Lake Matheson
Franz Josef's quieter twin, paired with the famous mirror reflections of Lake Matheson.
Hokitika & Greenstone Country
The vivid turquoise Hokitika Gorge, Māori greenstone (pounamu) carving and a charming gold-rush town.