Putangirua Pinnacles

Putangirua Pinnacles is a unique geological formation two hours away from Wellington. The unique landscape was formed millions of years ago by erosion from rivers and glaciers, leaving behind towering rock formations that are unlike anything else in the world.

The Pinnacles have a striking appearance, with towering, spiky pillars of rock rising up from the earth, and they have been the site of numerous films, including The Lord of the Rings trilogy. You can hike through the stunning valley to explore the Pinnacles up close, with the roundtrip journey taking around 1-2 hours. Along the way, there are a number of viewing platforms that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

The site is well-maintained and features a picnic area and public restrooms. While the hike can be steep in some areas, it is suitable for most fitness levels and is a great way to experience some of New Zealand's unique natural beauty.

Make sure to check the official park page in the links above before visiting, because the park is sometimes closed due to ground slides.