New Tracks and Punakaiki Update
The new Punangairi Visitor Centre has been up and running for well over a year now. Locals and visitors have been making good use of the new cafe and shop; meanwhile feedback has been very positive on the experience centre with many people planning a return to explore in more depth. The visitor centre building has even claimed wins at the New Zealand Architecture Awards for its innovative design by Sheppard and Routs Architects. It’s not hard to see why! Far from being an eyesore, the Visitor Centre tones in well with the surrounding natural environment and enhances the attractiveness of the main hub opposite the Pancake Rocks.
In an exciting new development, two new tracks have now been completed which can be accessed from the visitor centre carpark (to the right of Punangairi). Look for the sign for Te Korowai o Punangairi – A journey through the natural world of Punangairi. The first of the walks is a short lookout track heading up behind Punangairi with views over dolomite point. The second weaves into the forest, before gliding back down towards the shared cycle path (760m in total). This enables off-road access to Punakaiki River and Waikori Road. A worthwhile short track in its own right and a safe way to join existing pathways; this is also a gamechanger for those completing the Pororari Loop who will now be able to spend more of the loop in the forest than ever.
This popular loop for hikers and runners joins the Pororari river track with the bikers start/exit of the Paparoa Track and can be completed in either direction. Some prefer to go past the Pancake Rocks first, down to Waikori road and then into the forest the rest of the way to the Pororari River Carpark. Others will start at the carpark and come out at Waikori road then up past the Pancake Rocks. There are arguments for either – saving the forest for last vs finishing the run with a visit to the local amenities, or it could be about which side has the most punishing uphill or the most exciting downhill! The previous loop was around 11km, whilst the detour through the forest makes the loop just over 11.5km.
Down the road at the beach camp there is more to do than ever with the launch of Paddle ‘n’ Carve, a locally-owned and operated business offering guided tours, kayak rentals and carving workshops. Most recently they’ve even added to the mix an incredible sauna experience overlooking the picturesque Punakaiki Lagoon. This is an amazing way to unwind in an unparalleled natural setting.
