Walking Tracks
Walking Tracks
Punakaiki Loop Track
A short 20 minute paved loop track directly opposite the shops at Punakaiki, showcasing the amazing pancake rocks, stunning sea views and dramatic wave action. Time your trip for high tide to maximise your chances of seeing the blowholes in action. 
Truman Track
A short bush walk to an amazing beach with a waterfall. Best time to visit is low tide so you can clamber over to the small island and look for crabs and starfish. Take care not to get caught in the boisterous waves at high tideActivities
2 minutes up the road you will find the world famous Barrytown knife maker. For $220 you get a 1 day workshop where you get to make your own knife with a group of up to 8 other people. Complimentary lunch and glass of wine provided.This is just a small selection of the many great local walks. Others I have not included are the Croesus track (Barrytown), Bullock Creek (just past Punakaiki) , Coal Creek (Runanga), Point Elizabeth (Rapahoe), Motukiekie Beach and 10 mile
15 minutes north by car, Waka puna is situated near the mouth of the Pororari River (second river) in Punakaiki. Costs from $50-$120 for 2 or more hours. Had a great outing for my birthday apart from drowning my phone when my kayak got stuck against a log in the rapids.
Pororari Track
My fav track walking through gorgeous nikau palms alongside the deep green Pororari River as it winds through huge limestone cliffs. I usually walk an hour to the swingbridge. You can also do the loop track to the Punakaiki river. This track is also the start of the new Great walk- the Paparoa Track.
Paparoa National Park Visitor Centre
Newly opned in 2024 the centre features an interactive experience based on the landscape, heritage, and wildlife of the Paparoa National Park and surrounding areas. Developed by Weta Workshop, a cafe, DOC information centre, gift shop and toilets. Cost for interactive experience is $45pp. For more info check out this blog from the Punakaiki Motor Camp.
Mount George
A challenging 1 hour to the top (for me anyway) uphill walk with an awesome 360 Panoramic view and interesting vegetation I have not seen elsewhere. One section has a metal ladder and rope you have to scramble to scale a small cliff section. Start of the track is hard to find and parking is limited.
Fox River Market
30 minutes north along the most gorgeous part of the Coast road, the Market runs every Sunday during summer from 9-1 or 2pm. During Winter a car boot sale operates. A great selection of hand made crafts, second hand clothes, food and live music- you can even sing your own song.