11 Surprisingly Spooky Natural Wonders That Will Give You Goosebumps

5. The Moeraki Boulders: Sentinels of the Shore

The Moeraki Boulders, scattered along Koekohe Beach on New Zealand's Otago coast, are spherical stones that have captivated visitors with their perfect symmetry and mysterious origins. These boulders are the result of a natural process called concretion, where mineral cement binds sedimentary grains into rock. However, their appearance and placement have sparked numerous myths and legends. According to Māori tradition, the boulders are the remains of calabashes, kumara, and eel baskets washed ashore from the wreck of a large sailing canoe, the Āraiteuru. The Moeraki Boulders stand as silent sentinels, whispering stories of geological time and cultural heritage, inviting all who visit to ponder the mysteries of their creation and purpose.