The Pancake Rocks are located on the west coast of New Zealand's South Island. They were formed 30 million years ago from marine creatures and plant material that solidified into layers due to water pressure and seismic activity, eventually rising above sea level. The rocks feature distinctive pancake-like layers that were further shaped by the sea, wind, and rain. Tourists can walk along a 20-minute trail to view the rocks and blowholes.

1. Pancake Rocks At Punakaiki The Pancake Rocks are situated on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand. They were formed 30 million years ago by dead marine creatures and plant material, on the seabed. Over time they solidified into hard and soft layers by water pressure and with the help of seismic action, rose above the surface of the sea. Map courtesy of www.punakaiki.co.nz

2. Looking at Dolomite Point where the Pancake Rocks are, from the northern end.

3. Looking at the cliff face, as one approaches the rocks.

4. Here is the entrance to the Rocks. It takes approximately 20 minutes to walk the trail, which starts from Route 6, the only through road on the West Coast. Majestic Native Bush is plentiful, which attracts the various native birds and their song.

12. In the previous pictures, one can clearly see the layering of the rocks, creating the pancake effect, which are then further shaped by the sea, wind and rain. The native flora creates a marvellous natural garden.

14. Unfortunately, the weather wasn’t brilliant the day I was there. The wave action was such that the three blowholes were not really “blowing”

20. On the last shot, you can see that, even in winter, there are a number of tourists visiting the Pancake Rocks. Unfortunately my camera battery was on its last legs, hence I couldn’t take any more photos. Should you be interested in more info on the Pancake Rocks and the Punakaiki area, here are a couple of websites that you can visit. http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-visit/west-coast/buller-area/punakaiki-pancake-rocks-and-blowholes/ http://www.punakaiki.co.nz/ This one has more and most likely better photos of the area: http://travel.webshots.com/album/547644776xEzBLk As per, right click to “End Show”