New Zealand is a land full of fascinating geological phenomena, and one of the most visually distinctive is the “pancake rock” formation located at Punakaiki on the West Coast of the South Island. These rocks were first formed 30 million years ago from the fragments of dead marine flora and fauna, solidified together into layers by immense water pressure.

A 20-minute loop walking track winds through the different rock structures, showing you the incredible formations, crevices, and foam from the waves. At high tides, the sea rises up through the narrow chasms and erupts in spectacular blow holes – there are signs on the ground warning not to stand too close. A café across the road provides an excellent morning or afternoon tea break.