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A summer break to remember!

Thursday, January 2nd, 2025

As the summer sun graces Punakaiki, the Beach Camp has been buzzing with activity, offering a magical time for those who have been with us during the past 10 days. We have had many families and big groups staying and many of them still here!

One of the highlights this summer at the camp has undoubtedly been the fantastic weather to start the season. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Punakaiki Beach Camp has delivered on every front, providing a perfect blend relaxation and adventure.

The Coffee

There’s no better way to start your day than with a great cup of coffee, and Dion and Hils have certainly delivered on this front. Guests have been treated to some of the best coffee in Punakaiki, right on the doorstep of their campsites.

We’ve been firing up the coffee machine, serving rich, aromatic brews that set the perfect tone for a day of adventure. Whether you’re grabbing a quick flat white before heading out on a paddleboard or lounging by the beach and sipping your brew slowly, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm drink with the sound of the waves crashing nearby. It’s the little touches like these that make a stay at Punakaiki extra special.

Paddleboarding and Kayaking with Paddle N Carve (Based in the campground)

For those looking for more than just a relaxing beach experience, the start of this summer has been ideal for water-based activities. The camp has partnered with Paddle N Carve (based in the campground), an awesome local business that offers rentals of paddleboards and kayaks for those who want to explore the stunning Pororari River.

The conditions this summer have been perfect for both beginners and seasoned paddlers, with calm mornings and sparkling water that beckon people to take a paddle out. Whether you’re gliding across the water on a stand-up paddleboard or enjoying a leisurely kayak ride with friends or family, there’s no shortage of fun.

The best part? The friendly and knowledgeable team at Paddle N Carve ensure that every guest is set up for success, offering equipment that’s well-maintained and easy to use. Many guests have reported how simple it was to get started and how much fun they had, with plenty of opportunities for beautiful views, wildlife sightings, and the occasional impromptu splash fight.

Paddle N' Carve
Paddle N' Carve

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Excitement Builds for Summer at Punakaiki Beach Camp

Saturday, December 7th, 2024

Excitement Builds for Summer at Punakaiki Beach Camp: Top 5 Things to See and Do in Punakaiki This Summer

The sun is shining, the days are longer, and the vibe at Punakaiki Beach Camp is buzzing with excitement for the upcoming summer season! Nestled on the stunning West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Punakaiki offers a slice of paradise for nature lovers, adventurers, and those simply looking for a relaxing getaway. As the summer season draws near, we’re thrilled to share our top 5 must-do activities for anyone planning to visit Punakaiki this summer.

1. Kayak the Pororari River with Punakaiki Paddle ‘N Carve

For a unique water experience, head to the Pororari River, one of the most picturesque rivers in the region. Kayaking here offers an unforgettable adventure as you paddle past towering limestone cliffs, lush native forest, and abundant birdlife. 

Punakaiki Paddle ‘N Carve, located right here at the Punakaiki Beach Camp, is the best local provider for kayak rentals. They offer all the equipment you need for your river adventure, whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a first-timer. 

The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Paddle ‘N Carve will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring this beautiful waterway. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a kingfisher or two!

2. Paparoa Experience at the New Visitor Centre

For a deeper dive into the natural and cultural history of the area, head to the Paparoa Visitor Centre. Recently opened, this state-of-the-art centre offers an immersive experience where you can learn about the stunning Paparoa region. 

From interactive exhibits about the area’s geology to stories about the early Māori and European settlers, it’s the perfect place to start your adventure. The visitor centre also provides insightful displays about the Paparoa Track, offering tips for those who want to take on this famous Great Walk. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply curious about the landscape, this centre is a must-see!

3. Discover the Beauty of Punakaiki Beach

Punakaiki Beach is a hidden gem and the perfect place to unwind this summer. Just a short walk from Punakaiki Beach Camp, this rugged and wild beach is ideal for relaxing, beachcombing, or even having a peaceful picnic by the sea.

While the waters can be rough and not ideal for swimming, it’s a wonderful spot to watch the waves crash against the rocks, take in the spectacular sunsets, or go for a beach walk to discover the variety of driftwood and shells that wash ashore.

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4. Explore the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes

Without a doubt, the Pancake Rocks at Dolomite Point are the star attraction of Punakaiki, and they’re not to be missed! These unique limestone formations, stacked in layers like giant pancakes, were shaped over millions of years by the forces of wind and water.

As summer rolls in, the blowholes become even more dramatic, sending water surging through the rock formations when the tide is high. Take a leisurely walk along the well-maintained boardwalks and marvel at this natural wonder, with the ocean roaring and the occasional spray misting the air.

5. Visit the Punakaiki Cavern

For a bit of adventure underground, make sure to visit the Punakaiki Cavern. Just a short distance from the Beach Camp, this cavern offers guided tours where you can explore a fascinating limestone cave system. 

The stalactites and stalagmites within are awe-inspiring, and the dark, cool atmosphere makes for a perfect contrast to the sunny beach days. It’s an excellent rainy day activity that gives you a deeper appreciation of the region’s geological wonders.

At Punakaiki Beach Camp, we’re absolutely thrilled for the upcoming summer and the opportunity to share this magical place with all of our guests. Whether you’re into hiking, kayaking, exploring caves, or simply soaking up the natural beauty of the area, Punakaiki has something for everyone.

So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure on the West Coast. We can’t wait to welcome you to Punakaiki and share in the excitement of summer together!

See you at the beach! 🌞🌊

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The Paparoa Experience: A New Gem at the Punakaiki Visitor Centre

Saturday, November 23rd, 2024

Punakaiki has long been a favorite destination for travelers seeking natural beauty, rugged landscapes, and adventure. Known for its famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes, this quaint spot continues to captivate visitors with its charm. However, a new addition to the region promises to elevate the experience even further: the Paparoa Experience at the newly revamped Punakaiki Visitor Centre.

A New Hub for Exploration

The revamped Punakaiki Visitor Centre is more than just a stopping point for information—it is now a full-fledged interactive experience that brings the region’s natural wonders, cultural history, and conservation efforts to life. 

The Paparoa Experience is at the heart of this transformation, offering a truly immersive journey through the landscape, heritage, and wildlife of the Paparoa National Park and surrounding areas.

What is the Paparoa Experience?

The Paparoa Experience is an innovative, multi-sensory exhibition designed to educate and inspire visitors about the rich history of the Paparoa National Park. The experience seamlessly blends modern technology with storytelling to showcase the park’s diverse ecosystems, iconic landmarks like the Pancake Rocks, and the unique geology of the region.

As visitors step into the space, they are greeted by large, stunning visual displays, interactive touchscreens, and engaging audio-visual elements. These exhibits explain the fascinating geological processes that created the stunning limestone formations and the park’s diverse flora and fauna, which range from dense rainforest to dramatic coastal cliffs.

One of the highlights is an immersive 180-degree video experience that transports visitors into the heart of the Paparoa National Park. It feels as though you’re right there in the wild, walking through dense forest, hearing the calls of native birds, or standing at the edge of the rugged coastline. This cinematic experience provides a glimpse into the untouched beauty of the region, as well as the efforts underway to preserve it for future generations.

Embracing Local Culture and Conservation

The Paparoa Experience also highlights the local Maori heritage, offering insights into the traditional cultural connections to the land. Through rich storytelling, visitors can learn about the iwi (tribal groups) that have historically inhabited the area, their customs, and their spiritual connection to the environment. This blend of science and culture provides a comprehensive understanding of the land, making it a meaningful stop for travelers seeking to learn more about New Zealand’s indigenous history.

In addition, the exhibit addresses conservation efforts that are vital to preserving the delicate ecosystems of the Paparoa National Park. Interactive displays outline how local organizations are working to protect endangered species, such as the rare and elusive West Coast rock wren, and restore the natural environment, ensuring that the park’s beauty remains intact for future generations.

Enhancing the Visitor Experience

The Punakaiki Visitor Centre, and particularly the Paparoa Experience, is a fantastic addition to the range of activities already on offer in the area. Punakaiki is not just a scenic pit stop—it’s a place for adventure, learning, and connection with nature. For those who want to take a deep dive into the region’s heritage, the Paparoa Experience offers a perfect introduction before heading out to explore the park and nearby attractions.

Visitors can also enjoy the upgraded facilities at the centre, including a comfortable cafe with stunning views, an informative gift shop, and modern amenities. Whether you’re looking to gather more information about hiking trails in the park, or simply need a place to relax after a day of exploring, the centre provides a welcoming space for all.

The Punakaiki Visitor Centre, home to the Paparoa Experience, is conveniently located just off State Highway 6, in the heart of Punakaiki village. It’s a perfect stop for both those arriving from the north (Greymouth) and those heading south towards Hokitika. The centre is easily accessible, with plenty of parking available for visitors.

Hours of Operation:
The Punakaiki Visitor Centre is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Whether you’re planning a morning visit or an afternoon stop, the centre is ready to welcome you throughout the day.

 

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New ‘Punangairi’ Visitors Centre now open

Thursday, October 3rd, 2024

You may have noticed that Punakaiki has an eye-catching new landmark – the building for the new Visitor Centre, Punangairi is complete (now just awaiting the Experience Centre – more info to come). 

We posted some progress updates earlier this year which you can check out here and here. We are pretty chuffed with this new space for our community and visitors!

Marie Elder gave some background information on Punangairi in the Dolomite Point Redevelopment project Community Update.

On Monday 06 May 2024, Ngāti Waewae blessed the new building [right] and it opened for business – staffed by both Ngāti Waewae and DOC – early the same afternoon. It’s a beautiful and welcoming space to walk into, so be sure to pop in if you haven’t already.

If you’re wondering about the name Punangairi, here’s some background supplied by Ngāti Waewae:

The name Punakaiki has puzzled Māori and Pākehā since it first appeared on maps because the word doesn’t make sense in te reo Māori – puna means
spring or pool, but kaiki appears to have no meaning.

Poutini Ngāi Tahu, the Māori of the West Coast, believe the correct name is Punangairi. Puna = spring or pool, and ngairi (‘kairi’ in Ngāi Tahu dialect) = stormy waters.

Explorer Charles Heaphy was the first person to write down ‘Punakairi’, in 1846. But when his journal was published in the Nelson newspaper, the typesetter seems to have misread his cursive handwriting as ‘Punakaiki’ – and the name stuck.

Pronunciation: Puna-ngai-ri (same syllables and vowel sounds as Puna-kai-ki).

An era came to a close last week with the overnight demolition of the old Visitor Centre. This had been delayed due to discovery of rather more asbestos than expected and all the care and safety precautions that had to go with its removal.

What a difference a day makes – the old familiar Visitor Centre is taken apart, left. The northern entrance to the new building, Punangairi, is now visible along with the mature nikau which will frame new decking and landscaping.

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Opening dates for new Paparoa Visitors Centre!

Thursday, April 11th, 2024

Locals will have noticed a hive of activity, and some long working days, as the new front building (Experience Centre) nears completion. It is now expected to be ready to move in late April. This will trigger the demolition, removal, and final landscaping arrangements of the existing DOC Visitor Centre next door. DOC staff are fully involved in these arrangements. When this work is concluded (scheduled for mid-June), there will be a formal opening of this stage of the project.

Green roof The green roof of the new visitor centre is now in place and thriving. Sharon Langridge and the CVNZ team propagated and grew on all these plants, in special plant trays to facilitate drainage, and avoid erosion and slippage on the sloping roof. 

Progress on Exhibition Centre [back building]
This building,  tucked behind the new Visitor Centre, is well underway. It will also have a green roof and the plants are growing on strongly in preparation for this. Gibson Group – the exhibition designer – is active again, finalising the exhibition content for this space.


Installation of the exhibition is scheduled to start in May, as soon as the Exhibition building is completed by Naylor Love, and is due for completion by November this year.

Dion Findlay and his team made a splendid job of placing and installing these, under considerable pressure, impressing everyone who saw them in action.

Progress on Exhibition Centre [back building]
This building,  tucked behind the new Visitor Centre, is well underway. It will also have a green roof and the plants are growing on strongly in preparation for this. Gibson Group – the exhibition designer – is active again, finalising the exhibition content for this space.


Installation of the exhibition is scheduled to start in May, as soon as the Exhibition building is completed by Naylor Love, and is due for completion by November this year.

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Punakaiki’s NEW Skyscraper

Tuesday, July 25th, 2023

As everyone can now see, construction of the new Visitor Centre is well underway , with metal framing and laminated timber uprights showing the design and shape of the building to be. Some have wondered about the apparent height of the ‘roof’ indicated by the giant scaffolding spans and white covers, but rest assured, the finished building will not soar nearly that high. 

The building itself is emerging at approximately half the height of the canopy at the lower end , rising to take in the mezzanine floor at the northern end. The mezzanine floor ing is already in place, with views right out to the ocean , and the first glass panels are in place. Photo Cred: J. Flemming & Naylor Love

 

Funding for Stage 2

You’ll remember that collective breath has been held, for some months now, to learn if the necessary extra funding would be found to complete the project, divided into stages early last year due to hugely escalating costs [see March 2022 update].

The good news is , the Project has now secured additional government funding which will enable completion of the important multi – media visitor exhibition space , pedestrian link bridge, water treatment [to deliver potable water to the key visitor facilities ], the section of shared pathway through

the bush linking the southern section to the section from Dolomite Point north to Truman Track, landscaping, a pedestrian promenade upgrade, a nature walk and viewing platform on the hillside behind the new Visitor Centre, traffic control and pedestrian crossing upgrades. The project is on target to deliver much of the above by the s tart of this coming summer [with 1 December 2023 the intended Visitor Centre opening date] and will then continue with the multi – media exhibition construction and fit – out, with a scheduled opening date of later next year [2024].

The green roof


Recent media articles in the Grey Star, Westport News and Messenger show thousands of plants growing away, to be planted up later this year. They are all low – growing and have been eco – sourced from around the Dolomite Point area . Thank you to the team from Conservation Volunteers NZ

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What do the locals do?

Tuesday, March 28th, 2023

Many people come to Punakaiki attracted to its beautiful cliffs, native forest and pancake layered rocks but only scratch the surface of what’s available here. We’ve compiled a list of just some of the many things locals get up to on The Coast Road.

Surfing

Locals on the Coast road through Punakaiki and surrounds can often be spotted checking the surf, and there’s a high chance it’s pumping. It’s rarely crowded here and not that uncommon to have dolphins join your surf session.

The orange sunsets can be very dramatic, making for an ambient evening out on the water. Then it’s just a short walk back to base relaxed up on that surf buzz. About an hour away in the West Coast’s main centres, Greymouth and Westport, surfers come from all over the Coast and beyond to participate in regular surf comps.

There are even new ones popping up in other places on the West Coast such as Hokitika. 

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Music

15 minutes south of Punakaiki is the Barrytown Hall. This prestigious venue is full of history, with many successful acts having visited in their formative years. To this day the hall attracts many creatives as well as music lovers and dancefloor legends alike.

Once a year the hall also fills out for the costume themed Barrytown Ball. Across the road from the hall is the All Nations Barrytown pub, a favourite place to grab some Kai before the gig. The All Nations also hosts music acts, quiz nights and other events.

Further North local creatives congregate at Fox River for jam night each Wednesday for a social evening of homegrown music collabs. 

Kai and crafts

In summer people gather at the Sunday Fox River Market to catch up, get some hot food and coffee while picking up produce, preserves and unique one-off items such as pottery, clothing and other goods. 

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Outdoor recreation

It’s no secret that Punakaiki is home to one of New Zealand’s newest Great Walks – The Paparoa track, which is a must do, inspiring a lot of great biking, hiking and running missions. There are also many shorter walks and trails to beautiful secluded beach spots and tranquil swimming holes. These are not always well publicised for a reason; the fun is in spending a bit more time exploring to find these hidden spots. If you’re extra lucky you may even find a piece of our treasured Pounamu/Greenstone along the sands. 

For a different kind of adventure rock climbers love getting amongst the crags at Bullock Creek and Weka Wall, with unparalleled views from high.

It’s also never been easier to hire kayaks, paddleboards and ebikes, thanks to Waka Puna in Punakaiki.

Gatherings

Barbecues are a favourite way of sharing food in New Zealand and even more so on the Coast road where locals love being outside in the temperate climate amongst the sounds of crashing waves and the calls of the Tui. 

Many people are surprised to find that Punakaiki has a very reasonable number of days of sunshine. On the days it does rain it often rains hard which keeps everything green and can make for a cosy day in watching from the window or an exhilarating day out in the elements (with appropriate gear).

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Work

Many people here work in tourism, hospitality, trades, conservation and the arts, or dabble in a few different pursuits. Some have been here for many years, while others are travellers taking the opportunity to work and live in this beautiful corner of the world. The Coast Road is an inspiring setting making it a great place for exercising engenuity and getting startups off the ground.

 

Coming to Punakaiki soon? We recommend getting the local experience and planning a longer visit.

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Pete’s Pattie Palace (Update)

Monday, March 27th, 2023

Right in the heart of Punakaiki Beach Camp, situated with views of the cliffs, is Pete’s Pattie Palace foodcart. The foodcart is probably known best for its perky morning brew and delicious West Coast whitebait patties which have been in very high demand this season. 

Another popular mainstay is the refreshing softserve ice cream and Pete has now branched out to include a novel variation – coconut iced coffee. 

New to the Palace is a New Zealand favourite that is generally only offered in the South Island, the humble cheese roll. Pete has perfected a new recipe which incorporates three different cheeses – decadent! 

Pete’s Pattie Palace, in walking distance from your tent or cabin is the perfect spot to grab some Kai and take in the serenity of Punakaiki.

Here’s what a couple of Pete’s most recent customers said on Google Reviews:

Ofer: “Pete’s patties are amazing! Ordered two and could not resist getting seconds.

Try the ice cream, it’s great!”

Roxanne: “Proof positive that simple food can be extraordinary when made with care. Thank you Pete for the best whitebait pattie I’ve ever had. Went back for seconds !”

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Running the Paparoa Track… on a good day!

Sunday, February 5th, 2023

In December 2021 Jed and Johanna made it over the Paparoa track in a day but not without some hitches and challenging conditions. Read about it here. Less than a year later, August 2022 Jed and Johanna returned to Blackball to run the full track again. Here’s their story of the day. 

Our first running attempt of the Paparoa was somewhat of an epic. Little more than 6 months into training some might say this was a bold run we had planned, however we had been working hard, felt ready, and almost made it over smoothly.

A good comparison of the conditions

There’s something very special about the Paparoa track and after our eventful first experience we were still hungry for another go on the trail. After some solid recovery time followed by more training we set our date for 8 months later, 27 August 2022.

The day we planned to run, repair work was going on and the road from Blackball to the track start was closed to vehicles. Hence we took on board the prospect of running an extra 6kms and some extra hill right from the get go. Our total to cover in the day would be 62km, starting at Blackball Hilton and finishing at Punakaiki Beach Camp. A running friend joined us for the first big stretch up to Ces Clark Hut.

6am on Saturday morning in the dark, The Paparoa Track Services van dropped us off at ‘Formerly the Blackball Hilton’ and we got a quick pre-run selfie and downed some electrolyte fluids, jittery with nerves/excitement. Johanna was particularly nervous as the two days leading up to the run she had been feeling crook with nausea and stomach upset.

The date of the run was pretty much non-negotiable though, the metvuw forecast was for an absolute pearler of a day with no guarantee of another like this on the Sunday, or the following weekend. Johanna woke up on the Saturday feeling okay and decided to take the gamble.

The run got off to a good start, heading up the road climb we were careful to pace ourselves. We had a long way to go. It was novel running this extra stretch before the track. The concrete was easy on foot and we were surrounded by orange rock walls and ferns as we watched the sun come up, colouring the sky rosé. Soon we were onto the track itself.

Our legs were warmed up, the yarns were flowing, Jed was in great spirits… Such good spirts that 5km in he lost control of his footing on a rock, his ankle rolling out from under him. The mood suddenly shifted as we stopped and assessed the situation, wondering if the game was already over, just a short distance from Blackball. Thankfully as Jed got going again the pain began to subside and we became assured he wasn’t injured; nethertheless Jed made sure to concentrate more on his feet and the rocky terrain. 

The track leading to Ces Clark Hut was a steady climb. We kept up the momentum by jogging slowly up the hills and taking breaks every so often. Jed who’d run, biked and walked the track seemed to know the Paparoa in fine detail and kept pointing out spots of interest. 

 

When we made it up to Ces Clark Hut the sun was out in full force with a view of blue sky and snowy peaks behind us as we stood on the balcony of the hut. We stopped for a snack break and photos and chatted to trampers. After getting carried away a bit in conversation we looked at our watches; not knowing how the day would go, it was best we didn’t linger too long. 

Our friend wished us well for the rest of the run and we said our goodbyes; she would be heading back down the hill to Blackball with some tunes and getting closer to a well-earned glass of wine.

A bit more climbing and a bit more shuffling through undulating terrain while admiring the pristine native bush and the well-made track. When we got onto the tops we laughed and marveled at just how different our view was compared to the first time we ran this. The first time we had to keep the speed on to keep warm, fighting against a bitter wind and hard pellets of rain. This time we could take in the stunning 360 degree views, in awe of the huge drop offs and expansive tussocky views with hills, tarns and the distant sea.

Absolute stunner on the tops!

Quick obligatory stop at the impressive Moonlight Hut to fill our water bottles before we pushed on to Emergency shelter for lunch. We remembered how crucial the shelter had been last time we came through, protecting us from the elements while we stopped for a break. This time it had been replaced with an upgraded shelter which was much bigger. Johanna had struggled to eat any solid food, with the muesli bar at stop one not going down well. Even by lunch she was not able to touch any of the sandwiches or snacks she’d brought. Gels were a life-safer, going down smoothly and keeping the energy levels up.

It’s always a good feeling getting to Pororari Hut. We’ve been up there several times from the Punakaiki side and love the feeling of being back in the temperate forest. We were beginning to feel the muscle fatigue and it was about here the headphones and tunes came on to help push us forward. From here it was pretty smooth sailing down hill. We were sore but we felt the toughest part was over. We passed some fellow members of the West Coast Alpine Club who were doing pest control, exchanging some quick stories of the day.

The final 5km of the trail felt more like 30. Every time we stopped we felt so stiff, but the call to sit down on just about any half-decent log or rock was oh so strong. Sitting in the middle of the track on one of the last stops, Johanna finally felt some appetite for a carb-on-carb hashbrown & hummus sandwich. She offered one to a weary Jed and he first said no but soon changed his mind and downed two. After a couple more stops in the last section we finally said enough’s enough, we need to get moving. Tiredness turned to elation as we passed a key point where Jed said ‘I know this corner – we’re almost there!’ We fully appreciated the sparkly green pororari river beside us as we cruised on to the finish, beers, hot tub and congratulations waiting, grins ear to ear. We did it. Relaxing next to a big Kowhai tree we were amused to watch a plump Kererū attempt to fight off several Tui from eating the yellow flowers; the Tui largely unperturbed. It was good to be in Punakaiki.

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Our team in the news!

Monday, January 30th, 2023

We’ve been popping up in the media recently. Check us out!

 

Dion chats to the team from Development West Coast about Waka Puna, his new kayaking and paddleboarding venture, just down the road from the beach camp. Dion offers a fresh perspective on what kind of experience people can get out of their time in Punakaiki.

Dion pic

 

 

Craig featured on Newshub giving his take on the recent increased activity in Punakaiki with the development of the new visitor centre and the start of a new wave of visitors to the town. 

Craig and the team at Punakaiki Beach Camp are excited for what’s on the horizon.

 

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Waitangi Weekend

Sunday, January 8th, 2023

Kia ora

We’re having a dreamy summer over here in Punakaiki. Waitangi weekend is less than a month away and we’ve got some amazing options for you.

 

If you haven’t managed to get a booking over this busy period don’t worry, there are still opportunities coming up to wind down and enjoy our oasis. We have three wonderful holiday homes available to book, each with its own unique setting.

Treescapes

Treescapes is a beautiful rustic-feel new house right in the heart of the bush and overlooking the sea, for those who love waking up to watch the bellbirds and kereru outside their windows, and listening to the gentle crashing of waves.

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Seascapes

Seascapes is a lovely designed home in a prime spot for beach lovers and walkers alike who also love to come back and relax in luxury either indoors or outside on the garden deck.

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Cliffscapes

Cliffscapes, our third available home is wonderfully spacious and comfortable, set with an awe inspiring view of Punakaiki’s spectacular cliffs, a large garden, and great proximity to our coveted trails.

We also have plenty of Campsites, Cabins & Driftwood Cottage available for whatever the experience you’re after.

If you’d like to know more, check out our website or give our friendly team a call. We think you’d love a stay in Punakaiki this Waitangi, commemorating our national holiday.

Ka kite anō, we look forward to seeing you soon.

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Happy New Year!

Monday, January 2nd, 2023

Punakaiki Beach Camp has been buzzing with holiday makers this Christmas. Summer kicked in just in time and it’s been great to see people relaxing and getting out exploring – hiking, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and just generally having a great time with family and friends. Our customers know how to make the most of the outdoors. Many have stayed on or have arrived to reign in the new year in this idyllic spot.

 

There aren’t many places more inspiring to welcome in the new year than Punakaiki. Yet when you walk along the Pororari River you may feel like you’re in a prehistoric timewarp. A strong connection here with nature has been preserved. 

 

Native birds such as Tui, Bellbirds and Kereru can commonly be seen where they are rare in many other regions. The temperate rain forest in Punakaiki is bursting with endemic trees and flora that help these birds thrive. Punakaiki is one of the best places to see the Nikau, Aotearoa’s only native palm tree.

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The forest is not only beautiful but offers welcome shade in the summer months and the waterways such as Punakaiki River are clear and delightfully swimmable; back at the Pororari River one is struck by the stunning glassy green water. 

 

Whilst much of the forest has been preserved, we are fortunate that other areas are being restored with the help of volunteers and workers from The Punakaiki Coastal Restoration Project, West Coast, which aims to protect the habitat of the Westland Taiko/Petrels and Little Blue Penguins.

 

Punakaiki feels like a reminder of Aotearoa’s past but it is also a wonderful place to think about new beginnings; how to stay connected with the natural environment and protect and restore it as well as kicking back and enjoying it. Sometimes it can just start with planting a native tree in your backyard or community.

 

We wish you all the best for 2023; thank you to those who have stayed with us this year and we look forward to meeting more of you soon. Have a wonderful holiday. 

 

Ka Kite Anō.

 

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