How many moeraki boulders are there

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Boles, J. The Moeraki Boulders—anatomy of some septarian concretions. Journal of Sedimentary Research , 55 3. Isotopic evidence for origin of the Moeraki septarian concretions, New Zealand. Journal of Sedimentary Research , 59 2. These crystals attracted minerals from their surroundings. The seafloor became the mudstone cliffs behind the beach. Erosion caused perfectly smooth Moeraki Boulders to fall out of the mudstone cliffs and on to the beach. More erosion caused the network of veins to be exposed on the boulders.

The Moeraki Boulders ranged in size and some have a small void in the centre. It is believed that on a voyage seeking pounamu a canoe overturned at Matakaea Shag Point. These items were turned to stone and therefore became the Moeraki Boulders! The more spherical boulders were the gourds which were used to carry water and the more irregular shaped rocks that can be seen further down the beach were kumura.

The Moeraki Boulders have long interested tourists, as they are perfectly formed and look beautiful on the beach at different states of submersion. A visit to the South Island of New Zealand should take time to see this phenomenon. It is a shame that so many have been taken before they had legal protection, but they are still breathtaking!

Scientists explain the boulders as calcite concretions formed about 65 million years ago. According to Maori legend, the boulders are gourds washed ashore from the great voyaging canoe Araiteuru when it was wrecked upon landfall in New Zealand hundreds of years ago.

The boulders are located on Koekohe Beach, between the towns of Moerkai and Hampden. It is an easy and very scenic drive on State Highway 1 from the north or south. The Boulders are about 40km approx 30 minutes drive south of Oamaru — along a stunning scenic road! Just follow State Highway 1 towards Hampden. Let us show you the best of New Zealand on other platforms by selecting 'On' and allowing us to share data from your visit s with our partners.

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