From The Vanished World Centre to Elephant Rocks, Duntroon has a great mix of natural and cultural wonders waiting to be explored.
Discover the region's ancient history along the Vanished World Trail in Duntroon, where you will see some incredible geological formations and sites unlike anything else. Marvel at the unique limestone formations including Elephant Rocks, or explore the interactive Vanished World Centre where kids (little and big!) will love digging for fossils in the fossil room.
There’s plenty more to discover, including Maori rock art and numerous fossil sites.
All of these sites of geological, historical and cultural significance are part of the new aspiring Waitaki Whitestone Geopark(opens in new window) story.
Duntroon has also retained some unique aspects of its past including a restored gaol and an operating blacksmiths forge, Nicol’s Blacksmith. The beautiful Saint Martin’s Anglican Church is also worth stopping at to admire the architecture.
Behind the old gaol, you can also access the Duntroon Wetlands. Maintained by a group of hard-working volunteers, the wetlands are home to various species of insects, birds and more. Try to spot the springs throughout the wetlands and watch out for cyclists in sections – as the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail also goes through part of the wetlands. Duntroon has plenty of accommodation options, including 'real New Zealand' farm-stays, cottages, lodges and a historic homestead.
