Awe-inspiring scenery awaits those who venture to a secluded cove, where an enigmatic sight awaits: two colossal rock formations that resemble a cut apple, as if cleaved by supernatural forces.
This mystical wonder is located in an obscure and mysterious corner of the world, hidden away from prying eyes. Between Kaiteriteri and Marahau in Abel Tasman National Park, there is a natural formation known as Split Apple Rock that is entirely composed of granite and is thought to be more than 120 million years old.
According to Māori folklore, the rock was split apart by two warring gods who both coveted it. They utilized their godlike might to split the boulder in half, settling their argument. As a result, the Mori call this formation Tokangawh, which means “burst open rock”. Alternately, experts propose that water may have seeped into the granite through a crack, froze during an ice age, and eventually broke the stone.
The large rock formation is situated approximately 160 feet away from the shoreline. One may take a short stroll down a trail that is located just outside of Kaiteriteri town to get to the surrounding beach. Alternatively, tourists may take a kayak trip or use water taxis to observe the rock from the water, giving them a distinctive viewpoint.
