The Ancient Heart of Waitaki
-
Port
Timaru, New Zealand
-
Activity Level
Moderate
-
Excursion Type
All
-
Wheelchair Accessible
No
-
Starting At
$289.95
-
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
-
Duration
Approximately 8 Hours
-
Meals Included
Meals not included
Head to the Waitaki Valley and delve into the wonders of the internationally acclaimed Whitestone UNESCO Global Geopark — a remarkable destination renowned for its dramatic landscapes, ancient geological formations, and rare fossil sites found nowhere else in New Zealand.
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through the gently rolling farmland of South Canterbury province beneath expansive skies. Crossing the glacier-fed Waitaki River, you'll enter the heart of the Geopark, shaped by powerful natural forces over millions of years. A knowledgeable local guide will enrich your experience by weaving together geological heritage and deep cultural history.
Pause at the Vanished World Centre in the historic village of Duntroon. Here, you'll uncover the astonishing story of Zealandia — the submerged continent of which New Zealand is a part — and discover fossils of the ancient whales, dolphins, penguins, and sharks that once inhabited this region.
An important Maori rock art site is a legacy of the region's early inhabitants.
Nearby, an exceptionally rare whale fossil is preserved exactly where it was discovered, providing a tangible link to the past.
Short, easy walks allow you to get up close to the extraordinary Elephant Rocks and the aptly named Valley of the Whales. Shaped over millions of years, these striking limestone formations create surreal and otherworldly landscapes.
A relaxed late lunch awaits at the Riverstone Café in a peaceful country setting. Stroll through the café's tranquil gardens or browse among locally made gifts.
Notes:
Tour sequence may vary. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water. This is a full day tour that involves a lot of driving. Terrain and trails includes uneven terrain.