Koekohe Beach

Koekohe Beach is a long sandy stretch on the Otago coast known for its large round rocks called Moeraki Boulders. These natural stone spheres, up to two meters wide, feature distinctive cracked surfaces and sit scattered along the shore against a backdrop of rugged cliffs.

The Moeraki Boulders formed approximately 60 million years ago from seafloor sediments that hardened through slow crystallization and mineral buildup over time. Erosion gradually removed the softer surrounding material, exposing these distinctive rounded formations along the coast.

The name Koekohe comes from the Maori language and reflects the area's original roots. Local stories speak of the boulders as remains from an ancient canoe, connecting the rocks to the region's long history of seafaring and indigenous culture.

The site is easily accessible with a parking lot near the beach and a short walk to the rocks, along with accessible paths for visitors with disabilities. Conditions are best at low tide and during good weather, allowing you to walk around the boulders and explore tide pools where small sea creatures live.

Some of the large stone spheres continue to break free from the cliffs behind the beach, part of a natural process that has continued for millions of years. You can often spot debris piles at the cliff base showing how these formations gradually deliver new boulders to the shore and continuously reshape the coast.

Location: Otago

Address: Moeraki Boulders Beach, Moeraki Boulders Road, Hampden 9410, New Zealand

Website: http://moerakiboulders.com

GPS coordinates: -45.31936,170.83848

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:21