Wildlife & Beaches- Family & Kids

Moeraki Boulders, Koekohe Beach

  New Zealand's Mystery by the Sea: The Moeraki Boulders Imagine a beach scattered with giant, perfectly round boulders like scattered marbles. That's the...

  • Location

    Otago Coast
  • Duration

    Day Tour
  • Price

    Included In Your Tour Package

Moeraki, Otago, Photo Credit: Miles Holden

 

New Zealand’s Mystery by the Sea: The Moeraki Boulders

Imagine a beach scattered with giant, perfectly round boulders like scattered marbles. That’s the sight that greets visitors to Koekohe Beach, New Zealand, home to the fascinating Moeraki Boulders. These geological wonders have captivated hearts (and sparked imaginations) for centuries.

 

Million-Year-Old Marvels

The Boulders are colossal, some reaching up to two meters (6.5 feet) in diameter and weighing several tons. But their most striking feature is their near-perfect spherical shape. Unlike pebbles smoothed by the sea, these giants formed millions of years ago deep within the seabed. Slowly, minerals like calcite crystallized around a core, forming the concretions we see today. Erosion by waves eventually exposed them, gifting us this extraordinary beachside display.

 

Maori Legend and Modern Science

Maori legend offers a different explanation. They say the Boulders are gourds and eel baskets washed ashore from a wrecked canoe, Arai Te Uru. While science provides a more grounded explanation, the Maori legend adds a layer of cultural richness to the site.

 

Finding the Boulders

The Moeraki Boulders are located on Koekohe Beach, between the towns of Moeraki and Hampden on New Zealand’s South Island. Here’s how to get there:

  • By Car: The Boulders are easily accessible by car. From Dunedin, take State Highway 1 north for about 75 kilometers (47 miles). From Oamaru, head south on State Highway 1 for roughly 40 kilometers (25 miles). The drive itself is scenic, so relax and enjoy the coastal beauty.

 

Important Information

  • Opening Hours: The Moeraki Boulders are accessible 24/7, so you can visit any time.
  • Facilities: There are limited facilities near the Boulders. Toilets and basic amenities can be found in Moeraki or Hampden.
  • Respect the Boulders: The Boulders are a scientific reserve. Please admire them from a distance and avoid climbing on them.

 

A Must-See on Your New Zealand Adventure

Whether you’re a geology buff, a history enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates natural wonders, the Moeraki Boulders are a must-see on your New Zealand adventure. Soak in the beauty of these ancient spheres, ponder the Maori legend, and capture some truly unique photos. Just remember, these are natural treasures to be cherished, not climbed on.

 


Location Details

Otago Coast

Find similar things to do in the South Island regions

Seal Coast Safari
Moutohora Island Sanctuary Tour - Whakatane
Ruakuri Cave Guided Walking Tour
Whale & Dolphin Conservation Cruise
Eden Park Stadium Tour
Dark Sky Crater Experience at Cowans Observatory
west-coast-wild-life-centre
Evening Kiwi Spotting Tour
Premium Entry Evening Viewing
Penguin Express Coach Tour

2025/2026 Tour Package Deals

Are you looking for deals? Book early and save up to 10% on your next New Zealand tour. If you are interested in discounted tours in New Zealand, fill out our Enquiry form and we will send you our best offer.
Enquire Now