New Zealand: Owhiro Bay/Pariwhero Red Rocks & Fur Seals

We walked one of the wildest parts of Wellington's southern coast at the Te Kopahou Reserve in Owhiro Bay out to Pariwhero/Red Rocks, passing through Devils Gate and ending at Sinclair Head to see the fur seals. This coastal walk is breathtaking, taking us over sand, rocks and lava fields. Mostly a flat, but rugged, 6 miles roundtrip.

Legend of the Red Rocks...

Maori folklore believe the red color comes from one of two sources: Kupe, famous Polynesian explorer, was gathering shellfish when one clamped onto his hand, causing him to bleed onto the rocks and stain them red. The other is believed the Kupe's daughters feared for their fathers safety on his long journey and slashed themselves in grief over his absence.

In actuality, the 200 million year old rock formation is from the volcanic pillow lava that embedded in greywacke (sandstone) with red and green siltstone.

Continuing past Red Rocks to Devils Gate...where insane bikers and 4x4's make the attempt to cross through, often getting stuck and damaging their vehicles for the thrill. We walked/climbed through!