Omarama Clay Cliffs
Cliff Striking clay and silt cliffs with layered formations
Eroded siltstone pinnacles near Omarama, Otago offer layered cliffs and narrow gullies. Visitors come for short walks, geology study and photography as light outlines the folded strata.
The Omarama Clay Cliffs are an erosional landform near the township of Omarama in Otago on New Zealand’s South Island. The site is composed of steep pinnacles and ridges that rise to roughly 30 metres in places.
The cliffs form a narrow band of sculpted earth with sharp gullies and spires; a short, unsealed access track leads from a roadside car park to viewing areas. The formations are visually striking at close range and popular with photographers and short-walk visitors.
They were created by the erosion of soft sedimentary deposits, shaped over time by rain and wind. The features remain active and continue to change slowly as erosion progresses.
Located near the small service town of Omarama, the cliffs sit within the broader Mackenzie/Otago landscape of tussock country and dry river terraces in the South Island.
- Height and access: Formations reach about 30 metres in height and are best viewed from the marked car park and short walking track.
How to Get to Omarama Clay Cliffs #
From the town of Omarama (on State Highway 8), follow signs for the Clay Cliffs viewing area-it’s about a 10-15 minute drive north of the township. There is a sealed pull-off and a short walking track from the car park to the viewing platform; the site is visible from the parking area but short trails allow closer views. Gravel roads around the site can be rough; two-wheel-drive cars are generally fine in good weather.
Tips for Visiting Omarama Clay Cliffs #
- Go at sunrise for the clearest light and to avoid the midday winds that can kick up dust and make the cliffs hazy for photos.
- Wear sturdy shoes-footing on the clay slope is loose and a fall can be slippery.
- Respect private farm fences: some viewing points are on farmland; use the official car park off State Highway 8 to avoid trespass.
Best Time to Visit Omarama Clay Cliffs #
Best avoided on stormy days; visit in summer or shoulder seasons for stable weather and good light.
Weather & Climate near Omarama Clay Cliffs #
Omarama Clay Cliffs's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in January) and cold winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from -3°C to 22°C. Moderate rainfall (961 mm/year).
January
January is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (116 mm).
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February
February is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (44 mm).
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March
March is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (117 mm).
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April
April is cold with highs of 16°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (74 mm).
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May
May is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (65 mm).
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June
June is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of -2°C. Regular rainfall (90 mm).
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 7°C and lows of -3°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (151 mm).
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August
August is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm).
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October
October is cold with highs of 16°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm).
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November
November is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm).
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December
December is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 7°C. Regular rainfall (90 mm).
