4-24 July 2026
For many years I have paid yearly visits to the West Coast. One of the highlights were Punakaiki – Pancake Rocks.
Punakaiki’s Pancake Rocks are a striking example of coastal erosion shaping limestone formations. These rocks, which are about 30 million years old, are formed from layers of marine sediments and were subsequently lifted from the seabed by seismic activity. Over time, wind, rain and sea spray have eroded the softer layers, leaving behind the distinctive stacked appearance that resembles pancakes.
The erosion process has also created blowholes, where the sea water surges through openings in the rocks, particularly at high tides, sending plumes of water and air into the air.
Over the years I have painted different iterations of the rocks. I had a show at Left Bank Gallery some years ago in which they were the main theme. For the last two years I have revisited the theme utilising my latest techniques including a top secret one.
