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Clay Cliffs / Paritea

Clay Cliffs
Clay Cliffs, Omarama

The Clay Cliffs (aka Paritea) is another of the Waitaki District’s most distinctive sights–some call the area the “Grand Canyon” of New Zealand. Located near Omarama, at the top of the Waitaki River, the cliffs are wonderful to explore at any time of the year, but in late spring they are particularly popular with photographers seeking the beautiful sight of the cliffs with lupins blooming along the banks of the Ahuriri River. Combine your visit to the Clay Cliffs with a visit to some of the other attractions of the upper Waitaki Valley, such as Otematata’s wetlands, the wineries of Kurow, and the Elephant Rocks near Duntroon.