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Standing beneath a cliff, a woman observes the lush vegetation surrounding her. — In some places, we feel as if we’ve stepped back into the Jurassic period!

Treasures of Paparoa National Park

New Zealand Landscapes
Published on 2019-01-31
Revised on 2024-03-24

A staircase of flat stone blocks climbs into the forest, where immense ferns line the path. — After a few kilometres, the Pororari River path narrows and climbs into the heart of the subtropical forest. This trail is the start (or finish) of the 55 km Paparoa hike.

A waterfall runs along a cliff with horizontal strata, while waves break on rocky islets. — State Highway 6 ranks among the country’s most beautiful coastal roads. Here, the Irimahuwhero lookout provides a stunning view of Perpandicular Point and the Tasman Sea.

At sunset, a huge wave breaks against a cliff. — The Pancake Rocks and Blowholes walk reveals the full power of the Tasman Sea. At high tide, waves crash against the cliffs.

Walking Through a Lush Forest

In their quest for discovery, our two young boys quickly find fern branches on the ground. On one side, Léo holds up his trophy singing along with the cicadas, while Lucas drags a gigantic three-meter-long specimen. A little further on, the Pororari river path narrows into a track where our two kids gambol on stone steps.

Family Speleology at Punakaiki Cave

“Léo, can you light this way?” and 15 seconds later: “this way, please”. What a funny idea to visit this cave with three headlamps for four people!

Exploring a Surprising Coastline

This national park is one of the most famous on the West Coast of the South Island. While the Truman Trail unfolds its treasures at low tide, the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes walk reveals a spectacular sight at high tide. A must-see for one or several days!

Learn more, Department of Conservation (DOC)

Silhouettes of people standing at sunset as a jet of water shoots into the air. — The force of the waves is so strong that water infiltrates through blowholes, spraying water at photographers who get a little too close.

At the end of the day, the sun’s rays penetrate the holes in a cliff on the edge of a rough sea. — West Coast landscape constantly changes with tides, storms and years. “A photograph is a moment in time that will never return”, said Martine Franck.

Coastal landscape in the early evening, where a wave shoots up among curious rock formations in the shape of piled-up pancakes. — The short Pancake Rocks and Blowholes loop offers perfect opportunities to admire curious limestone formations resembling pancake rocks.

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Treasures of Paparoa National Park

TERRA TRIBUTA