Punakaiki Blow Holes & Pancake Rocks Scenic Tour

Greymouth , New Zealand

Punakaiki Blow Holes & Pancake Rocks Scenic Tour

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(56 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

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.

Available options

Punakaiki Blow Holes & Pancake Rocks Scenic Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Admission ticket

Detailed itinerary

Punakaiki, the World famous Coast road is rated one of the top 10 Coastal drives in the World. Home to the Pancake Rocks, where the sea, wind and massive geological change have shaped the landscape creating fascinating stacked limestone rocks that the sea has eroded creating blowholes.

Leaving from the central West Coast you will travel via the Great Coast Road, which is rated as one of the top 10 coastal drives in the World. With some of the best scenery on offer you will need a camera on hand to capture the views.

This 45 minute drive will take you to the small coastal township of Punakaiki where you will get to view the famous blow holes and pancake rock natural formations. Your guide will give you time to explore the area and local shops before checking out the cavern near by or the Truman Track, a short walk to a coastal view point.

The blow holes and pancake rocks is one of New Zealand’s must do activities and one not to be missed.

Your tour guide will bring you back to your accommodation or the central business district.

Pick up from Greymouth i-SITE Visitor Centre - Railway Station or central accommodation establishments.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

14 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

42 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

At the Greymouth Railway Station building carpark outside the visitor centre, located near Speights Ale House and The Warehouse buildings.

Important notes

Please wait outside the front of your accommodation establishment by the road side for collection or outside at the i-SITE Visitor Centre car park at the Railway Station as arranged.

About Greymouth

Greymouth is the largest town on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. Known as the gateway to the wild and scenic West Coast, it offers a mix of rugged landscapes, rich history, and outdoor adventures. The town is famous for its pounamu (greenstone) and is a hub for the famous TranzAlpine train journey.

Top Attractions

TranzAlpine Train Journey

One of the world's most scenic train journeys, the TranzAlpine runs from Christchurch to Greymouth, offering breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and lush rainforests.

Scenic/Adventure 4.5 hours one way Moderate to Expensive (NZD 90-150 depending on the class)

Pounamu (Greenstone) Museum

This museum showcases the cultural significance and history of pounamu, a sacred greenstone to the Māori, and its role in New Zealand's history.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Budget (NZD 10-15)

Kawatiri River Trail

A scenic walking and cycling trail that follows the Kawatiri River, offering beautiful views of the river and surrounding landscapes.

Nature/Adventure 2-4 hours (depending on the section) Free

Shantytown Heritage Park

An open-air museum that recreates a 19th-century gold mining town, offering a glimpse into the region's gold mining history.

Historical/Entertainment 2-4 hours Moderate (NZD 20-25)

Point Elizabeth

A scenic beach and picnic area located on the outskirts of Greymouth, offering beautiful ocean views and a peaceful setting.

Nature/Relaxation 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hangi

A traditional Māori method of cooking food in an earth oven, resulting in tender and flavorful meat and vegetables.

Dinner Contains meat and vegetables, may not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Whitebait Fritters

A local delicacy made from tiny whitebait fish mixed with egg and fried into a fritter.

Appetizer/Snack Contains fish and egg, may not be suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies.

Lamb Rump

A popular dish featuring tender and flavorful lamb rump, often served with seasonal vegetables and a red wine reduction.

Dinner Contains meat, may not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Popular Activities

Hiking Helicopter tours Guided glacier walks Beach walks Picnicking Visiting hot pools Exploring historic sites Shopping for pounamu

Best Time to Visit

Summer (December to February)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and longer daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the region's natural beauty.

15-22°C 59-72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Māori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12 (New Zealand Standard Time, NZST)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Greymouth is generally safe, but travelers should be aware of common safety precautions and weather-related hazards.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
• Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Hokitika Airport • 30 km north of Greymouth

By train

Greymouth Railway Station

By bus

Greymouth Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Public buses are available but not very frequent. Taxis and rental cars are more convenient for getting around.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Blakely Cobden

Day trips

Hokitika

30 km north of Greymouth • Half day to full day

Hokitika is a charming town known for its pounamu (greenstone) carvings, historic sites, and beautiful beaches.

Arthur's Pass National Park

80 km east of Greymouth • Full day

Arthur's Pass National Park offers stunning alpine scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Franz Josef Glacier

150 km north of Greymouth • Full day to overnight

Franz Josef Glacier is a stunning glacier offering guided walks, helicopter tours, and breathtaking views.

Festivals

West Coast Wildlife Week • Annually in October Hokitika Wildfoods Festival • Annually in March

Pro tips

Book the TranzAlpine train journey in advance, especially during peak season.
Bring layered clothing and be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially if engaging in outdoor activities.
Consider purchasing a piece of pounamu (greenstone) as a unique and meaningful souvenir.
Explore the local food scene and try traditional dishes like hangi and whitebait fritters.
Take the time to visit nearby attractions like Hokitika, Arthur's Pass National Park, and Franz Josef Glacier for a more comprehensive West Coast experience.