Punakaiki Pancake Rocks
‘At Pancake Rocks in Punakaiki, New Zealand, I can see the direct result of the immense water pressure that caused these rocks to solidify in hard and soft layers…It is stunning to see how the forces of nature are working in this place.’
Pancake Rocks. A funny name for this nature wonder in New Zealand. The famous rocks and blowholes are just a 20 minute walk from the car park at Punakaiki. Looking like giant pancakes the curious limestone formations are something spectacular!
The rocks were formed 30 million years ago from minute fragments of dead marine creatures and plants landed on the seabed about 2 km below the surface. Gradually seismic action lifted the limestone above the seabed. Mildly acidic rain, wind and seawater sculpted the bizarre shapes. Definitly worth a stop on your trip!