The Clay Cliffs are one of the South Island’s coolest hidden-gem landscapes — tall, jagged pinnacles and narrow canyon walls that look like something from a desert movie set rather than New Zealand farmland. They’re dramatic, photogenic, and easy to visit if you’re driving between Queenstown, Wānaka, Aoraki/Mt Cook, Dunedin or Tekapo
Natural erosion carved these sharp clay spires and gullies over thousands of years to produce:
- Tall needle-like rock towers
- Narrow walk-through canyons
- Wild-west / badlands scenery
- Great texture and light for photography
They are located about 15 minutes west of Omarama along a dirt road. It is on private land and there is an honor box to pay at. There is a QR to pay, yet there was no cell service.
- Easy stroll to main cliffs: 10–15 minutes
- Exploring canyons: allow 45–90 minutes total
No big hike required — very accessible, but very steep in places.