Local Māori oral history explain these strangely large and spherical boulders as the remains of eel baskets, calabashes, 

and kumara washed ashore from the wreck of Arai-te-uru, a large sailing canoe. The rocky shoals that extend seaward from Matakaea Shag Point are the petrified hull of this wreck and a nearby rocky headland is the body of the canoe's captain.

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The Moeraki Boulders are a famous attractive destination for a reason. These striking round rocks can reach up to 3 metres in diameter and weigh several tones whilst the smaller boulders can resemble an over inflated football. These boulders have formed backdrops to photographs for over a century. Beyond the immediate visual appeal is a fascinating geological story.

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The boulders at Moeraki and Matakaea Shag Point formed from ancient seafloor muds between 55 and 70 million years ago. Each boulder started life as a pebble or fossil on an ancient seafloor. Over time these 'grew' by mud accretion and calcification. These boulders have been exposed through coastline erosion from coastal cliffs. Even today, there are still boulders remaining in the mudstone that will, sooner or later, fall on to the beach as they come loose due to erosion!

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To learn more you can listen to the Sasha Say’s podcasts on Moeraki Boulders here. Or check out this awesome video about the Moeraki Boulders and their formation: https://youtu.be/m3oBWhHW4Lk 

Please be aware the following hazards include: tides, wildlife, cliff face erosion (falling debris) and uneven loose / slippery surfaces. Tsunami risk – if an earthquake is strong or long, get gone.