Hokitika to Punakaiki Drive: Distance, Time & Best Stops
The drive from Hokitika to Punakaiki follows the West Coast to the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes. Here’s the distance, time, best stops, and tips.
Quick facts
Distance
100 km (approx)
Driving time
1 hour 20 min (approx)
Best time to drive
Year-round. Pancake Rocks best at high tide for blowholes.
Road notes
Sealed. Coastal. Straightforward.
Times vary with stops, weather and roadworks.
Route map
Follow the route from Hokitika to Punakaiki. Stops are numbered on the map.
Route stops:
Map data © Mapbox
Best stops along the way
Hokitika
Fuel and supplies.
- Best for: Fuel
Greymouth
Largest town on this stretch; fuel and food.
- Best for: Fuel
- Best for: Food
Punakaiki
Pancake Rocks and blowholes. Short walk. Best at high tide.
- Best for: Photos
- Best for: Walk
- Best for: Must-see
Scenic highlights
- • Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowholes (time for high tide if possible)
- • West Coast coastline and rainforest
Driving tips
- • Pancake Rocks blowholes are most dramatic at high tide; check tide times.
- • Fuel at Hokitika or Greymouth. Times vary with stops, weather and roadworks.
Where to stay / camp
Recommended vehicle
A compact car is easy to drive and park on this route and saves fuel. An SUV gives extra space and confidence on winding or higher-altitude sections. A campervan suits if you’re camping but is larger to manoeuvre. For a balance of size, fuel efficiency, and ease of parking, especially at popular stops, a compact 4WD like the Jimny works well: easy to park, fuel efficient, and capable on sealed and gravel public roads. Gravel roads are common in the South Island; drive to conditions. Off-road driving is not allowed on rental vehicles.
See our vehicles and camping setup. Compare options in our campervan vs rooftop tent guide.
Frequently asked questions
- How long is the drive from Hokitika to Punakaiki?
- Approximately 100 km and 1 hour 20 minutes. Times vary with stops, weather and roadworks.
- When is the best time to see the blowholes?
- Around high tide for the most dramatic blowholes. Check tide times.
- Is the road difficult?
- No. Sealed and straightforward.
- Any gravel sections?
- Main route is sealed. Off-road not allowed.
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