The Ōmārama Clay Cliffs are dramatic geological formations located about 10 kilometres west of Ōmārama in the Waitaki region.
Explore towering pinnacles, narrow ravines and layered clay formations at the Ōmārama Clay Cliffs, around 10 kilometres west of Ōmārama. Located on private farmland within the Waitaki Whitestone UNESCO Global Geopark, the cliffs are reached by an unsealed access road followed by a short walk.
The Ōmārama Clay Cliffs form a dramatic series of sharp pinnacles divided by steep, narrow ravines. Follow the gravel track from the car park to walk among the formations and see their layers, ridges and changing colours at close range.
Allow approximately one hour for the return walk, or longer for photography and exploring the ravines. The track is uneven and includes loose gravel, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
The cliffs are made from layers of gravel, sand and silt deposited by ancient lakes and rivers millions of years ago. Uplift and erosion gradually shaped these sediments into the pinnacles and ravines visible today.
The site forms part of the Waitaki Whitestone UNESCO Global Geopark, which protects and shares the stories of the Waitaki region’s internationally significant landscapes and geology.
The Ōmārama Clay Cliffs are on private farmland, around a 15-minute drive from Ōmārama. From State Highway 8, turn onto Quailburn Road and continue onto the unsealed Henburn Road, following signs to the cliffs.
A vehicle entry fee applies. Pay by bank transfer before travelling or bring cash for the honesty box at the gate. Mobile reception at the cliffs is limited, so check the current fee and payment information(opens in new window) before leaving Ōmārama.
Allow approximately one hour for the return walk. The gravel track is uneven and can become slippery after rain. Wear sturdy footwear, carry drinking water and prepare for rapidly changing weather.
There are no toilets, shops or drinking-water facilities at the cliffs. Use the facilities in Ōmārama before travelling. The track is unlikely to be suitable for wheelchairs, most pushchairs or visitors with limited mobility, although views of the formations may be available from farther away.
Stay on the tracks where possible, do not climb on or remove material from the formations, keep dogs on a lead and take all rubbish with you. Overnight camping is not permitted.
Check the official Clay Cliffs website(opens in new window) for current entry fees, access notices and road conditions.
After visiting the Clay Cliffs, explore more of Ōmārama and the surrounding high-country landscape. Relax in a private hot tub(opens in new window), experience the area’s clear night skies or continue your journey towards Twizel, Aoraki/Mount Cook or the Waitaki Valley(opens in new window).
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