An enchanting valley with amazing geology

Claremont’s private estate and nature reserve is a fascinating destination in its own right.

In this part of the Waipara river valley, you will discover truly amazing and unique natural geological features. The remains of many mosasaur’s, plesiosaur’s and the world’s oldest penguin have all been unearthed from the river beds adjacent to our property, along with a treasure trove of other remarkable finds.

Claremont was the first place in New Zealand where significant fossils were discovered. Then there’s the intriguing “KT boundary”, a layer of meteorite dust that led American scientist Louis Alvoraz to conclude it was a meteor impact 65 million years ago which led to the extinction of the dinosaurs.

As well as dinosaur bones and other fossils, Claremont guests will be enchanted by “God’s marbles”. These fascinating 65 million old limestone spheres are found on the banks of the Waipara river and rival the “Moeraki boulders” (that have been billed as the eighth wonder of the world).

There is a pretty waterfall and a 55 million year old fossilized oyster bed. You can admire a stunning Limestone escarpment reminiscent of the Great Wall of China and visit the dramatic limestone Waipara gorge. You will also be captivated by the amazing gigantic (45m high) “Bishops Head rock”, natural rock sculpture.

A stay at Claremont includes the opportunity to participate in our enthralling Land Rover safari adventure. During this morning's journey of discovery you will encounter many other extraordinary geological features.