I once saw a photo of Kura Tawhiti, or Castle Hill in New Zealand. A man walked between huge boulders at sunset with mountains fading into the light. The scene looked like something out of a dream. I decided then to make a special trip to see it while on the South Island.

Castle Hill

Approaching the site, I was reminded of Stonehenge, except no man has laid the stones that stand here. Giant limestone boulders that once rested under an inland sea, lie here on soft grass, smoothed into curved shapes over millions of years. Each seemed to tell a story and create a new space around every corner. Some seemed to have faces carved in them, others created natural doorways to crawl through. I felt like a child, exploring all the turns and climbing to the highest rock and staring down at the ant-like people far below. I laid back on the top ridge feeling the hard stone, smooth under my back, creating a natural upward arch and opening my heart to the sky.

Castle Hill

Castle Hill

Castle Hill

Huge rain clouds loomed in the distance and at times a light mist would fall. I wished I wasn’t hungry, or cold and wet from the rain. I would have stayed and rested in the grass looking up at these giants all afternoon. As it was, I pushed my body to its limit and stayed for a few hours enjoying the energy of the place. If I ever come to New Zealand again, I’ll make room for more time here. Castle Hill really is a like a castle, full of magic, built by mother nature, and I was queen of it for a fleeting moment.

Castle Hill

Castle Hill

Helpful Information:
Castle Hill is near Arthur’s Pass on the South Island of New Zealand. It’s an easy, flat walk from the car park to the site. There are restrooms at the location, while a petrol station and cafe are located in Arthur’s Pass up the road. For more information place visit this website.