If you’re road tripping between Queenstown or Wanaka and Aoraki / Mount Cook, the Clay Cliffs in Omarama are absolutely worth the detour.

The walk to the cliffs is short and easy, around 10 minutes, and you’re rewarded with dramatic views of towering clay pinnacles rising from the valley, with the Ahuriri River winding below.

This is private land, so bring a $5 note for the honesty box at the entrance and respect the rules. Drones are not permitted. If you visit in lupin season (late November-December) you may also find lupins blooming around the area!