Image: Shellie Evans | ©
Moeraki Boulders
Moeraki area

Located in the Otago region

Take a short walk to see huge spherical boulders scattered on the beach or to watch for penguins and seals. Explore the area from one of the campsites.

The Moeraki Boulders/Kaihinaki are geological marvels, exposed by erosion of sedimentary rocks laid down from 65 to 13 million years ago.

They're formed by the gradual precipitation of calcite in mudstone over 4 million years. These spherical concretions are internationally significant for their scientific value and are a popular tourist attraction.

Visit Katiki Point, the southern point of Moeraki Peninsula. View the historic Katiki Point Lighthouse, Te Raka a Hineatea Pa site, yellow-eyed penguins, and fur seals amongst other marine wildlife. Or visit Shag Point/Matakaea for diverse marine life, interesting flora, and great wildlife viewing.

Moeraki is 40 km south of Oamaru on SH1. Walks and campsites in the area are between Herbert to the north and Palmerston to the south.

Moeraki Boulders/Kaihinaki are signposted on SH1 around 1 km south of Hampden. There are two ways to access the boulders. Both access points are signposted.

All drone use must be authorised by DOC

You must have a permit to fly a drone on public conservation land.

Visit our Drone use on conservation land page for more information.

Large numbers of New Zealand fur seals/kekeno haul out to rest on the rocky platforms around Katiki Point and Moeraki Peninsula. This is the main breeding area in North Otago. 

A variety of sea and shore birds breed here.

Katiki Point is the most significant breeding site for yellow-eyed penguins/hoiho in North Otago.