Punakaiki Cavern

This small cave is named after nearby Pancake Rocks, which are a famous tourist destination. This rocks are called Punakaiki by the native Maori. Very spectacular rocks formed by the waves in a thin bedded limestone. The thin layers of limestone, about two or three centimeters thick and more or less horizontal give the rocks a look like a stack of pancakes, thus the name.

This nearby cave is a karst cave, located in the same limestone. The limestone is karstified and there are numerous caves in this area.

This small cave is signposted by the Paparoa National Park. A wooden stair leads up onto the two meter high wall at the cave entrance. The cave itself is considered to be very easy to explore. However, a reliable light source, appropriate shoes and common sense are essential.