10 Things to do in Punakaiki That You Shouldn't Miss

February 9, 2022 Natalie Tallman

Punakaiki is a small community on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand, between Westport and Greymouth. The community lies on the edge of the Paparoa National Park.
Restaurants in Punakaiki

1. Punakaiki Horse Treks

State Highway 6, Punakaiki 7873 New Zealand +64 3-731 1839 [email protected] http://www.pancake-rocks.co.nz/horse.html
Excellent
94%
Good
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5.0 based on 96 reviews

Punakaiki Horse Treks

Stunning scenic horse riding in the Punakaiki valley and within the Paparoa National Park. Our 2.5 hour rides crosses the Punakaiki river and the route winds along to a bush hut for a stop for refreshments. Explore this beautiful valley on horseback and finish along the Punakaiki Lagoon and the beach. We can cater to all abilities and give a short tuition at the start of each ride. Morning and afternoon rides, with a group ride and the option of a private ride. Stables located 600m south of the Pancake Rocks. Call us to discuss times and ride options.

Reviewed By CSundCS

We booked this trip in advance and had a fantastic time! The owners Neil and Karen provided us with the essentials for our ride while our lovely guide Lauren took care of our horses for us. As it was only the second time on a horse for me, I was given the very even-tempered mare Jupiter and Lauren taught me the basics. Then we were off! Our horse trek took us through the stunning landscape of the Paparoa National Park with several river crossings and a welcomed tea break for us while our horses took the chance to graze or doze. During the entire ride Lauren was great to chat with, she was full of information about the area and time just flew by. Our ride ended at the pancake rocks on the beach where my wife and Lauren took the chance to race each other (it’s only for the experienced riders) which was great fun to watch! We can only recommend this experience for everyone and we hope to return soon! Thanks again!

2. Paparoa Track

Excellent
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5.0 based on 18 reviews

Paparoa Track

Located at the end of the Paparoa Track the Punakaiki Beach Camp team are here to take care of your Great Walk logistics. We offer a simple booking system for track services so you can book all services at one place with an instant confirmation.

3. Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Walk

State Highway 6, Paparoa National Park, Punakaiki 7873 New Zealand +64 3-731 1895 [email protected] http://www.doc.govt.nz/link/1c49372bd3584510a6689690e8a88d47.aspx
Excellent
71%
Good
25%
Satisfactory
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4.5 based on 2,379 reviews

Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Walk

Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip.

Reviewed By Donzmarie72

Wow mother nature is amazing the formation of the rocks is mind blowing nice clear day high tide amazing photo opportunities lovely scenic walk to see nature at it's best. Especially the chimney pot.was much enjoyed recomend anyone to see this.

4. Truman Track

State Highway 6 Paparoa National Park, Punakaiki New Zealand +64 3-731 1895 [email protected] http://www.doc.govt.nz/link/473f7641cdbe4a559e945c4a87b97c4f.aspx
Excellent
67%
Good
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Satisfactory
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4.5 based on 313 reviews

Truman Track

Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip.

Reviewed By sherrrrry - Flagler Beach, United States

An easy walk through a magical rainforest brings you to a beautiful natural coastal view. Take your time and listen for birds. Bring your camera, too!

5. Paparoa National Park Visitor Information Centre

4294 Coast Road Paparoa National Park, Punakaiki 7873 New Zealand +64 3-731 1895 [email protected] http://www.doc.govt.nz/link/e4b344fc0a564e8ca78c71145a0a2776.aspx
Excellent
53%
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4.5 based on 43 reviews

Paparoa National Park Visitor Information Centre

6. Pororari River Track

State Highway 6 Paparoa National Park, Punakaiki New Zealand +64 3-731 1895 [email protected] http://www.doc.govt.nz/link/473f7641cdbe4a559e945c4a87b97c4f.aspx
Excellent
72%
Good
21%
Satisfactory
7%
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4.5 based on 95 reviews

Pororari River Track

Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip.

Reviewed By 726billw - Christchurch, New Zealand

This is one of our favourite short walks in NZ. Very well maintained track that meanders alongside the river. Versatile as you can take a short walk, a 3km walk to where the track meets the cycle track or do the loop over into the Punakaiki River. All options are easy.

7. Punakaiki Cavern

State Highway 6 Paparoa National Park, Punakaiki New Zealand +64 3-731 1895 [email protected] http://www.doc.govt.nz/link/473f7641cdbe4a559e945c4a87b97c4f.aspx
Excellent
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4.0 based on 96 reviews

Punakaiki Cavern

Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip.

Reviewed By AuntyDnz

The Cavern is a super cool cave to explore, with lots of twists and turns. You will need a torch, as it is super dark in there.

8. Fox River Cave Walk

1561 State Highway 6, Punakaiki New Zealand +64 3-731 1895 [email protected]
Excellent
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Good
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4.0 based on 15 reviews

Fox River Cave Walk

Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip.

9. Inland Pack Track

Punakaiki New Zealand
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3.0 based on 2 reviews

Inland Pack Track

10. Punakaiki Canoes

Excellent
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5.0 based on 59 reviews

Punakaiki Canoes

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