Pancake Rocks are scenic limestone formations in the Paparoa National Park near Punakaiki, West Coast, New Zealand. This was the last destination during our New Zealand South Island road trip, which included Queenstown, Fiordland National Park, Mount Aspiring National Park, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Lake Tekapo, and Franz Josef Glacier.
Punakaiki is located less than a 3-hour drive from Frank Joseph Glacier and driving is preferred compared to the expensive connecting flights from Auckland (Westport, WSZ is the nearest airport).
How I Booked the roundtrip flight to New Zealand
I used ANA miles to book the Air New Zealand business class flight from Houston to Auckland for 120K miles per person. Partner award space for premium cabins is rarely released on this airline and we were lucky to find the availability.
Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
Best Trails in Paparoa National Park
https://www.alltrails.com/parks/new-zealand/west-coast/paparoa-national-park
We did a few hikes in the Paparoa national park which included Pororari River Track, Punakaiki – Pororari River Loop, and Paparoa Track.
Summary
Paparoa National Park is a must-see natural attraction when visiting the South Island of New Zealand and there is no better way to explore the region other than renting a car.