What is the Paparoa National Park and why is it significant?

The Paparoa National Park is a protected area located on the west coast of New Zealand's South Island. It covers an area of approximately 306 square kilometers and was established in 1987. The park is known for its diverse landscapes, including limestone cliffs, dense rainforests, and sub-alpine tussock lands.

One of the park's most popular attractions is the Paparoa Track, a 55-kilometer hiking and biking trail that traverses the park's diverse landscapes. Other notable features of the park include the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, a series of limestone formations that have been eroded by the sea, creating a unique landscape of rock formations and blowholes.

The park is also significant for its cultural and historical importance. The area has been inhabited by the Maori people for over 700 years and has a rich history of gold mining and coal mining. The park is also home to the Pike River Mine, which was the site of a mining disaster in 2010, in which 29 miners lost their lives.

Today, the Paparoa National Park is a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and historical importance.