Moeraki Boulders

On Koekohe Beach near Moeraki, huge spherical boulders scattered along the sand look like the abandoned eggs of some prehistoric giant. These natural concretions, formed millions of years ago, are a surreal and photogenic sight, especially at sunrise or low tide when they emerge from the receding water.

Highlights & What to See

• Moeraki Boulders – Walk the beach at low tide to see dozens of perfectly round boulders, some up to two metres in diameter, resting on the sand and in the surf. The Maori legend says they are remains of eel baskets and gourds washed ashore from the wreck of the great canoe Araiteuru.
• Koekohe Beach – Stroll along the sandy shore between the boulders, watching for seabirds and the distant peaks of the Southern Alps. The beach is also a good spot for a quiet picnic.
• Moeraki Village – A tiny fishing settlement with a historic pub and a working harbour. Stop for fresh seafood or fish and chips at the Moeraki Tavern, overlooking the beach.
• Katiki Point Lighthouse – A short drive south, this historic lighthouse offers views of the coast and a chance to spot yellow-eyed penguins and fur seals on the rocks below.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 1–2 hours to explore the boulders and beach. Combine with a stop in Moeraki village for a meal, making it a half-day trip from Oamaru or Dunedin. The boulders are visible at any tide, but low tide reveals the full collection and is best for photography.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Oamaru – 40 minutes north, famous for its Victorian precinct, steampunk culture, and little blue penguin colony at dusk.
• Dunedin – 1.5 hours south, with Scottish heritage, the Otago Peninsula, and the world’s steepest street, Baldwin Street.
• Waitaki Valley – Inland from Oamaru, a landscape of limestone cliffs, vineyards, and the historic town of Kurow.
• Catlins – Further south, a wild coastal area with waterfalls, petrified forest, and the iconic Nugget Point.

Please check official sources for current details.