Any eco-tourist travelling to New Zealand should consider Paparoa National Park. Established in 1987 as a means to protect the limestone environment from mining, Paparoa is one of the world’s newest national parks. However, the fact that it is still in it’s infancy as a national park doesn’t make it any less worth a visit than any other. Popular with tourists, the park stretches from the coastline to the Paparoa Ranges and covers over 300 km2.
When it comes to holidaying abroad accommodation is very important. The Te Nikau Retreat in in Punakaiki is a real gem. Its location is ideal for anyone visiting the park and rooms come from as little as ?14 per night. The retreat is only 3km from the Pancake Rocks which is ideal as the rocks are definitely worth taking some time to admire whilst there.
The Pancake Rocks are essentially flat limestone rocks that have been eroded over time. Due to the holes that have appeared the rocks sporadically shoot water from vertical holes when the tide is high. The rocks are said to be easily accessible and most certainly worth a visit.
Any eco-tourist exploring the area will want to avoid spending too much time in a car or on public transport and there is no better way to enjoy the environment than on horseback. Punakaiki Horse Treks offer 2.5 hour treks that take in the Pancake Rocks for around ?80 per person.
If you are a twitcher then you may find the park of particular interest. There is a wide variety of birdlife to be seen including the Great Spotted Kiwi. The Kiwi is mostly visible at night so you may want to take binoculars and a torch with you on your visit.
Remember, when visiting any national park to consider the environment and try and leave as much of the area as possible untouched.